Rainbow Falls Trail
Iconic 80-foot waterfall in the Smokies, famous for rainbows in its mist. A challenging but rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for rainbow sightings
Rainbow Falls Trail
Best Time
Best chance for rainbow sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 80-foot waterfall in the Smokies, famous for rainbows in its mist. A challenging but rewarding hike.
"The waterfall at the end makes it all worth it."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slick, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the hike has significant elevation gain, particularly in the final mile.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Rainbow Falls
End of the main trail
Witness the stunning 80-foot single-drop waterfall, famous for the vibrant rainbows that dance in its mist on sunny days.
Scenic Forest Hike
The entire trail
Trek through lush forests, enjoying the sounds of the river and smaller cascades along the way.
Challenging Final Ascent
Upper section of the trail
Conquer the steep final mile for a rewarding, humbling experience and breathtaking views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Trail Conditions & What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slick, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the hike has significant elevation gain, particularly in the final mile.
☀️ Chase the Rainbow
Visit on a sunny day, ideally between late morning and mid-afternoon, for the best chance to see the rainbow in the mist.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be slick, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the hike has significant elevation gain, particularly in the final mile.
☀️ Chase the Rainbow
Visit on a sunny day, ideally between late morning and mid-afternoon, for the best chance to see the rainbow in the mist.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🧥 Pack for Changing Weather
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. A light rain jacket is recommended, as mist from the falls can make things damp.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning beauty of Rainbow Falls, calling it a rewarding hike with a spectacular payoff. The challenging final mile is noted for its difficulty but ultimately adds to the sense of accomplishment. While the trail is mostly wooded, the waterfall and the potential for rainbows make the journey worthwhile.
"The entire trail top to bottom is great. All of the improvements are from the trail head to the falls. Beyond that, it's pure back country as you'd hope for. The final mile is a killer gradient that is extremely rewarding, but a humbling experience!"
Greg Hixon
"Great waterfall and great hike to get there. Several small waterfalls along the way."
Peter Shaw
"Beautiful waterfall trail. It had surprisingly a lot of elevation gain. The trail itself is pretty short, but the elevation gain makes it a lot harder. Most of it is in the woods except for a few views and small waterfalls, but the waterfall at the end makes it all worth it. You can also walk behind the waterfall. The rainbow caused by the waterfall was pretty visible but less visible on camera, so there’s an edited picture attached to help you see it better."
Kathryn Rogers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rainbow Falls Trailhead is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is typically via the main park roads. For specific directions, it's best to use GPS coordinates or consult a park map. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Yes, there is a trailhead parking area. However, it's known to fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak hiking times. Arriving early is highly recommended.
No, Rainbow Falls is accessible only by hiking the Rainbow Falls Trail. The trail is approximately 5.5 miles round trip, with a significant elevation gain.
As of recent updates, there is no entrance fee for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself. However, parking tags are now required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park.
While the trail is generally well-marked, having a trail map or using a navigation app like AllTrails can be helpful, especially for understanding the elevation changes and distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no specific ticket required for the Rainbow Falls Trail itself. However, a parking tag is required for vehicles parked within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Rainbow Falls Trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park may have specific entry times or restrictions depending on the season or park management.
There is no separate entrance fee for Rainbow Falls. The primary cost associated with visiting is the required parking tag for vehicles within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Yes, Rainbow Falls Trail is accessible in the winter. However, be prepared for potentially icy conditions, especially on steeper sections. Check weather and trail conditions before you go.
There are no age restrictions for hiking the Rainbow Falls Trail. However, the trail's difficulty and length mean it's best suited for individuals and families with children who are accustomed to moderate hiking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Rainbow Falls Trail is approximately 5.5 miles round trip. The hike involves a significant elevation gain, making it moderately difficult.
The trail has a considerable elevation gain, with the final mile being particularly steep. Expect around 500 feet of elevation gain in total.
The trail is considered moderately difficult due to its length and the steep final mile. It's not an easy walk, but it's manageable with breaks and proper preparation.
Yes, it is possible to walk behind Rainbow Falls, offering a unique perspective of the cascading water. Be cautious as the rocks can be slippery.
Yes, in some locations like Gorges State Park, you can extend your hike to see other falls like Turtleback Falls and Drift Falls. 
📸 📸 Photography Tips
For capturing the rainbow effect, aim for sunny days between late morning and mid-afternoon when the sun is high enough to create the mist refraction.
The rainbow is best seen in the mist of the falls on a sunny day. You might need to experiment with angles and be patient. Sometimes it's more visible to the eye than on camera.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. Consider a tripod for sharper shots in lower light or to capture the mist.
Yes, the trail itself offers scenic views of the forest and smaller cascades. The area around the falls provides numerous vantage points for photography.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Parks, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and take frequent breaks. The smaller waterfalls along the way can be exciting for kids, and the main waterfall is a spectacular reward. For a potentially more manageable experience with younger children, explore nearby areas like Gorges State Park, which offers shorter waterfall hikes like Upper Bearwallow Falls.
Always prioritize safety, especially near water and on slippery terrain. ⛰️ Experienced Hikers
Consider tackling the trail in different seasons to experience its varied beauty, from lush green summers to potentially icy winter landscapes. If you're looking for a more remote or backcountry experience, the trail beyond the main falls in some locations can offer just that. Always be prepared with navigation tools and adequate supplies for longer treks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the journey as well; the forest scenery and smaller cascades offer excellent photographic opportunities. Be mindful of the slippery conditions around the falls when setting up your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Rainbow Falls
+1While the natural formation is ancient, the trail's accessibility and improvements are more recent. The trail is a popular hiking destination, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for visitors seeking to connect with the park's natural wonders. The surrounding forest is a rich ecosystem, home to diverse flora and fauna, adding to the immersive experience of the hike.
It's important to note that 'Rainbow Falls' is a name shared by several waterfalls in different locations, including in California (near Devil's Postpile National Monument) and North Carolina (Gorges State Park). Each has its own unique geological story and hiking experience.
+1Navigating the Rainbow Falls Trail: A Hiker's Guide
Proper footwear is essential, as the trail can become slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are highly recommended.
For those looking for alternative or extended hikes, locations like Gorges State Park in North Carolina offer trails that lead to Rainbow Falls and other nearby waterfalls like Turtleback Falls. These can offer different lengths and difficulty levels, catering to a wider range of hikers.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit