There are more than 2,000 miles of streams with over 100 waterfalls and cascades in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One of the most impressive and popular waterfalls in the national park is Rainbow Falls. This waterfall can be reached by hiking the Rainbow Falls Trail in the Roaring Fork section of the park. Here’s everything you need to know about Rainbow Falls and how you can hike to it.
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a towering 80-foot waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This breathtaking waterfall holds the title of the tallest single-drop waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. Rainbow Falls gets its name from the rainbow glare that appears in the mist from the falls on sunny afternoons. The waterfall is set back some distance from the trail, but this distance makes it a great backdrop for photos. There are also plenty of places where you can sit and enjoy a snack while taking in the peaceful sights and sounds of the cascading falls.
Rainbow Falls Trail
To reach Rainbow Falls, you’ll need to hike the Rainbow Falls Trail. You can find this trailhead just outside of Gatlinburg along Cherokee Orchard Road on the way to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The hike to Rainbow Falls is 5.4 miles roundtrip with a total elevation gain of 1,685 feet. The Rainbow Falls Trail is considered moderately difficult because it averages a 624-foot elevation gain per mile and has some rocky terrain. The hike to the waterfall is mostly uphill. This trail begins in a rocky boulder field with LeConte Creek flowing along the side. As you continue up the trail you will cross two footbridges over the creek along your way to the falls. You’ll reach Rainbow Falls roughly 2.7 miles from the trailhead. You can then turn around and head back down the trail to end the hike, or you can continue past the falls for another 4 miles to make your way up to Mount LeConte.
Tips for Hiking to Rainbow Falls
Due to the length, elevation gain, and rocky terrain of sections of the Rainbow Falls Trail, some hikers rate this trail as difficult. Depending on your experience level, it may take 3 to 5 hours to hike to Rainbow Falls and back. Because some portions of this trail are very rocky, it’s recommended that you wear sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support. Make sure you also bring plenty of drinking water with you. The best time to visit Rainbow Falls is after long periods of rain, as this increases the volume of water cascading down the falls and makes for more impressive photos. During extended periods of cold temperatures, a spectacular ice formation forms around the waterfall, which also makes for great photos. Please note that the rocks around the waterfall are slippery due to moisture and algae, so please do not climb on them.
More Waterfall Hikes in the Smoky Mountains
Rainbow Falls is one of the most well-known waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains. There are quite a few other waterfalls that are worth finding in the national park as well. If you’re looking for more incredible waterfalls to discover, check out these top 6 Smoky Mountain waterfall hikes that offer spectacular views of some of the best waterfalls in the Smokies.
