Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve

The basics

With varied landscapes that range from grasslands and heaths to lakes and mountains—not to mention its namesake waterfall—Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Trails lead up to Loch Skeen, carved by glaciers millennia ago and one of the nature reserve’s highlights, as well as into the surrounding Moffat hills (including the highest, White Coombe). Also known for its population of ospreys, eagles, peregrine falcons, and other birds of prey, the reserve promises a dramatic introduction to Scotland’s rugged scenery.

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is located within day-trip distance of Scottish hubs like Glasgow and Edinburgh, making it easy to plan an independent getaway.

Things to know before you go

• The trails can be very steep, and some are best-suited to experienced hikers.

• The weather is very changeable throughout the year; no matter when you visit, bring sturdy hiking boots, waterproof gear, and protective layers.

• Because of the rough terrain and steep paths, Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is unfortunately not very accessible to disabled visitors.

• Dogs are welcome in the park.

• If you wish to bring a drone for photography, you must first receive permission from the property manager.

How to get there

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is in the Moffat Water Valley, in Dumfries and Galloway. The nearest town is Moffat, which is a 10-mile (16-kilometer) drive away via the A708. The nearest postcode to the reserve is DG10 9LH, which is located some 3 miles (5 kilometers) southwest of the park. There is a paved, paid parking lot on site.

When to get there

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is open year round. Some of the most popular times to visit are in the summer months—when the trails are likely to be driest and most accessible—and especially in August, when blooming heather turns the hillsides purple. It’s also possible to visit in winter, when the waterfall sometimes freezes over, making it accessible to experienced ice climbers.

Nearby National Trust sights

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve is administered by the National Trust, which protects a number of historical and natural landmarks across the UK. After a hiking trip, head to nearby National Trust highlights like Thomas Carlyle’s Birthplace (where the 19th-century author and cultural critic was born), Robert Smail’s Printing Works (the oldest commercial letterpress printer in the UK), and Priorwood Garden.