The path has collapsed near Steall Meadows. Photo: Richard Webb CC-BY-SA-2.0

A popular path in the shadow of Britain’s highest mountain has been closed following a landslip.

Heavy rain in the past few days has caused the collapse on the path in the Steall Gorge in Glen Nevis.

The path is blocked and a tree and part of the route have subsided into the Water of Nevis, leaving a 6m (20ft) drop.

The John Muir Trust, which owns the land, has closed the route while it assesses the path.

The Mountaineering Council warned hillgoers of the closure, and said the section from the Steall Gorge car park to close to Steall Meadows, where the ravine opens out, has been closed. A small section just south of Meall Cumhann is blocked.

A MCofS spokesperson said: “For those familiar with the area there are old stalkers’ paths on both north and south banks of the river, but these are not obvious and suitable only for experienced and properly equipped walkers.”

JMT conservation officer Alison Austin said: “We have path contractors looking at the site this afternoon and we expect to be able to make an announcement about the path tomorrow.”

Warning signs have been placed at the start of the path.