Rainbow Falls Gorges
Experience the breathtaking Rainbow Falls and its surrounding cascades in Gorges State Park, a hiker's paradise in North Carolina.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy the mist
Rainbow Falls Gorges
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy the mist
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking Rainbow Falls and its surrounding cascades in Gorges State Park, a hiker's paradise in North Carolina.
"Absolutely worth the hike, but be prepared—it’s more challenging than the mileage suggests."
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The trail is steeper than it looks; good footwear is key for safety and comfort.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate hike, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Falls
Gorges State Park
A stunning 150-foot waterfall named for the vibrant rainbows often seen in its mist.
Turtleback Falls
Gorges State Park
A popular spot for swimming and sliding, located just a short distance from Rainbow Falls.
Drift Falls
Gorges State Park (technically private property)
A more secluded waterfall, often visited by those who venture further on the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Intensity & Timing
What to Pack & Wear
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The trail is steeper than it looks; good footwear is key for safety and comfort.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate hike, especially during warmer months.
🏊 Swim at Turtleback Falls
Bring swimwear for a refreshing dip or slide at this popular spot.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Your furry friends can join the adventure on the Rainbow Falls Trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The trail is steeper than it looks; good footwear is key for safety and comfort.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate hike, especially during warmer months.
🏊 Swim at Turtleback Falls
Bring swimwear for a refreshing dip or slide at this popular spot.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Your furry friends can join the adventure on the Rainbow Falls Trail.
📸 Capture the Rainbow
Visit when the sun is out to see the magical rainbows in the waterfall's mist.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rainbow Falls for its magical beauty and the rewarding hike, though many note it's more challenging than the mileage suggests. The opportunity to see rainbows in the mist and swim at Turtleback Falls are highlights. Some find it crowded, recommending early visits, and caution that off-trail sections can be strenuous for casual hikers.
"Park has no entry or parking fee, and is a much larger park than say, the main attraction trails to the waterfalls and overlook near the Visitor center. Visitor center is super pretty, with nice store and displays with learning aids. From here you can travel the easy gravel path to an overlook where you spot lakes Keowee and Jocassee in the distance - it's a trail for kids, too, with a cute lil "story book" along the way.
Rainbow falls has a pretty large 🅿️ area, with nearby overflow. Porta potties here, trailhead is at the upper end of the lot. Trail starts off easy and wide, mostly gravel. Where the state park line ends, trail is much less gravel and more earth but still wide and easy. When you see the first set of stairs, it gets moderate from there on up. Several sets of stairs, go up or around them. Muddy in places, especially onward to Turtle Falls. To access the base of Rainbow, the easiest path is taken by the observation deck, you will see the path from there. Boulders at the base are dry and not slick but still use caution.
Turtle falls are probably best viewed at creek edge, with a few paths to it. Bridge just before these falls have broken railings. I went along the stone creek edge up and around the falls as it wasn't steep and was dry."
Shara Michaels
"This is a great place to hike and parking is free. Be sure to check out the visitor center and interactive displays before you leave .
I took my wife here to hike as she wants to start hiking more and more and I thought this would be a great trail for her . I was right , this was perfect just the right elevation and length for her to push herself a little bit. The trail is well maintained and the falls were flowing beautifully.
I highly recommend this hike to everyone wanting to get outdoors , it is a busy spot so you will see lots of friendly smiles as you traverse the terrain. They are roots all along the trail so watch your step and go at your own pace ."
True Carolina
"This place was pretty magical. You start the hike thinking it's not too bad, but it does get pretty intense. There is plenty of viewing locations. For the brave, you can go to bottom with care. You get to see rainbows that's makes it magical. This is a must visit just about three hours outside of Charlotte."
Laila LaTisha Bradford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Falls is located in Gorges State Park, accessible from the Sapphire, NC community via the Grassy Ridge trailhead. It's about 55 miles from Asheville.
The Grassy Ridge trailhead is a recommended access point for Rainbow Falls, offering a 1.5-mile hike.
Gorges State Park is located off Highway 130 as you drive north toward Sapphire Valley, NC.
While Lake Toxaway is nearby, the primary access for Rainbow Falls is through Gorges State Park. Some private properties near Lake Toxaway may offer access, but it's not the standard public route.
Yes, backcountry camping is available at Gorges State Park, with designated spots like the Raymond Fisher camp trail. Reservations are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter Gorges State Park or hike to Rainbow Falls.
Gorges State Park generally has daylight hours for access, but it's always best to check the official park website for the most current information.
No, the Rainbow Falls Trail within Gorges State Park is free to access.
Tickets are not required for Rainbow Falls. It's a public park, and access is on a first-come, first-served basis for day use.
Leashed dogs are permitted on the trails. Be mindful of trail conditions and any posted park regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Rainbow Falls is typically around 3.9 miles round-trip, though some sources mention 3.0 or 3.5 miles. It's considered a moderate hike.
The hike is generally rated as moderate, with some steep sections. It can be challenging, especially for younger children or those not accustomed to hiking.
While Rainbow Falls itself is not typically recommended for swimming due to its height and power, nearby Turtleback Falls is a popular spot for swimming and sliding.
Yes, there are porta-potties and picnic tables available at the trailhead, which is very convenient.
Nearby waterfalls include Turtleback Falls and Drift Falls. Gorges State Park boasts over 50 miles of hiking trails with numerous waterfalls.
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning to early afternoon is often best for catching the rainbow effect in the mist, but be prepared for more crowds. Early morning offers fewer people and softer light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors in the mist.
Yes, there are multiple viewing locations along the trail, offering different perspectives of Rainbow Falls. The main lookout provides a close-up experience with mist.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check Gorges State Park's specific regulations.
For Turtleback Falls, consider angles that capture people enjoying the slide or the unique shape of the rock formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The convenience of porta-potties and picnic tables at the trailhead adds to the family-friendly amenities. 🐶 Pet-Friendly Adventures
+1 Remember to bring water for your furry companion and be mindful of other hikers and the natural environment. The moderate terrain is generally manageable for most dogs, but assess your pet's stamina for the uphill sections. 🏕️ Backpackers & Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Rainbow Falls: What to Expect
It's a popular trail, so starting early is highly recommended to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Along the route, you'll encounter other beautiful cascades. The most notable is Turtleback Falls, a unique rock formation that allows visitors to swim and even slide down its smooth surface.
Further along, some hikers venture to Drift Falls, though it's technically on private property. The park itself boasts over 50 miles of trails, offering ample opportunities for exploration beyond the main falls. Key takeaways for the hike: wear sturdy shoes, bring ample water and snacks, and be ready for a moderate climb. The effort is well worth the breathtaking views and the refreshing mist from Rainbow Falls.
Experiencing the Waterfalls: Beyond Rainbow Falls
It's a great spot to cool off on a warm day, but always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the trail continues to Drift Falls. This waterfall is less frequently visited and offers a more secluded experience.
It's important to note that while the park maintains trails, some areas, like Drift Falls, are technically on private property, so respecting signage and boundaries is crucial. Beyond these immediate falls, Gorges State Park is a haven for waterfall enthusiasts, with over 50 miles of trails leading to numerous other cascades.
Whether you're looking for a refreshing swim, a scenic hike, or simply the calming sound of rushing water, the park delivers a diverse range of natural beauty. 
Social
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