Rainbow Falls Trail

The Magic of Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls earns its name honestly. On sunny winter and early spring days, when spray from the 80-foot falls freezes on the surrounding rocks, the afternoon sun creates stunning rainbows in the mist. It's a magical sight that draws photographers and hikers alike.

The falls tumble over a rock overhang on LeConte Creek, dropping straight down 80 feet in a single plunge. After good rain, the falls become a thundering curtain of water. In winter, ice formations create an entirely different kind of beauty—sometimes the falls freeze almost entirely.

Getting There

The Rainbow Falls Trailhead is located at Cherokee Orchard Road, about 3.5 miles from downtown Gatlinburg. Take Historic Nature Trail from the main strip, which becomes Cherokee Orchard Road. The trailhead has a modest parking lot that fills quickly on weekends.

Parking permit required ($5/day or $40/year) March through November. The lot can fill by 9 AM on weekends in peak season. The same parking area serves the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Trail Description

The hike to Rainbow Falls is moderately challenging with steady uphill climbing. The trail gains about 1,500 feet over 2.7 miles—a consistent but manageable grade.

What to Expect

• Mile 0-1: Trail climbs steadily through hardwood forest, crossing small streams
• Mile 1-2: Rocky sections require careful footing; views begin to open up
• Mile 2-2.7: Steeper final approach; you'll hear the falls before you see them
• Mile 2.7: Rainbow Falls appears dramatically through the trees

The trail surface is mostly dirt and rock with exposed roots. Several log footbridges cross streams along the way. The path can be slippery when wet, especially near the falls.

At the Falls

Rainbow Falls drops 80 feet over a rock overhang, with LeConte Creek plunging straight down in a single curtain of water. The viewing area is on rocks below the falls—use caution as these are perpetually wet and slippery.

The falls are especially impressive:

• After recent rainfall, when water volume is high
• In winter, when ice formations create stunning sculptures
• On sunny afternoons, when rainbows may appear in the mist

Continuing to Mount LeConte

Rainbow Falls Trail continues another 4.1 miles beyond the falls to the summit of Mount LeConte. If you're up for an all-day adventure (13.6 miles round trip with 4,000+ feet of gain), you can reach LeConte Lodge at the top—the only lodge in the park accessible only by foot.

Most hikers turn around at Rainbow Falls, making for a satisfying half-day hike. But the option to continue adds flexibility for ambitious hikers.

What to Bring

• At least 2 liters of water per person
• Sturdy hiking boots with good traction
• Layers—temperatures drop as you climb
• Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
• Camera for the falls
• Snacks or lunch
• Trekking poles (helpful but not essential)

Winter Hiking Tips

Rainbow Falls is particularly beautiful in winter, but conditions require extra preparation:

• The trail can be icy—microspikes or traction devices recommended
• Dress in layers and bring extra insulation
• Days are shorter—start early
• Check road conditions; Cherokee Orchard Road can be closed in snow
• The ice formations on the falls are spectacular but change daily