Quick Facts
In This Guide
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 creates a fine mist, the afternoon sun produces stunning rainbows in the cascade. This magical light show draws photographers and hikers from around the world, particularly during the colder months when conditions are ideal for this phenomenon.
The falls tumble over a rock overhang on LeConte Creek, dropping straight down 80 feet in a single dramatic plunge. After a good rain, the falls become a thundering curtain of white water. In winter, ice formations create an entirely different kind of beauty, with the falls sometimes freezing almost entirely into spectacular ice sculptures. This versatility makes Rainbow Falls a destination worth visiting in any season.
Beyond the waterfall itself, this trail serves as the shortest route to the summit of Mount LeConte, making it popular with both casual waterfall seekers and ambitious peak baggers looking to reach one of the most famous summits in the Smokies.
The namesake rainbows are most commonly seen on sunny winter and early spring afternoons between 12 PM and 3 PM when the sun angle is just right and the spray creates mist. Cold temperatures that generate ice spray are ideal. Summer visits are beautiful too, but the rainbow effect is less common due to sun angles.
Getting There and Parking
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, especially during peak leaf season in October.
Approx drive time from our cabins: 10 minutes. This makes Rainbow Falls one of the most accessible major waterfall hikes from our cabin locations.
Parking Information
Parking permit required ($5/day or $40/year) from March through November. The lot can fill by 9 AM on weekends during peak season. The same parking area serves the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which has occasional seasonal road closings. Check the park website for current conditions.
Planning a Waterfall Adventure?
Our cabins feature hot tubs perfect for warming up after a winter hike. Book your Smoky Mountain base camp today!
Check Cabin AvailabilityTrail Description
The hike to Rainbow Falls is moderately challenging with steady uphill climbing throughout. The trail gains about 1,500 feet over 2.7 miles, a consistent but manageable grade that rewards hikers with one of the most impressive waterfalls in the park.
What to Expect Mile by Mile
- Mile 0 to 1: Trail climbs steadily through hardwood forest, crossing small streams on log bridges
- Mile 1 to 2: Rocky sections require careful footing. Views begin to open up through gaps in the trees.
- Mile 2 to 2.7: Steeper final approach with the sounds of the falls growing louder with each step
- Mile 2.7: Rainbow Falls appears dramatically through the trees
The trail surface is mostly dirt and rock with exposed roots throughout. Several log footbridges cross streams along the way, and these can be slippery when wet. The path becomes increasingly wet and slippery near the falls, so watch your footing carefully on the final approach.
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 consists of rocks below the falls, which are perpetually wet and slippery. Use extreme caution when approaching for photos or simply to take in the view.
The falls are especially impressive under these conditions:
- After recent rainfall: Water volume increases dramatically, creating a thundering cascade
- In winter: Ice formations create stunning sculptures around the falls
- On sunny afternoons: Rainbows may appear in the mist, creating the effect that gave the falls their name
- Early morning: Fewer crowds and beautiful soft light for photography
Continuing to Mount LeConte
Rainbow Falls Trail continues another 4.1 miles beyond the falls to the summit of Mount LeConte. If you are up for an all-day adventure (13.6 miles round trip with 4,000+ feet of elevation gain), you can reach LeConte Lodge at the top. This is the only lodge in the park accessible only by foot, and overnight stays require reservations often made a year in advance.
Most hikers turn around at Rainbow Falls, making for a satisfying half-day hike. But the option to continue adds flexibility for ambitious hikers who want to tackle one of the most rewarding summit hikes in the Smokies.
What to Bring
- Water: At least 2 liters per person. You will be sweating on the climb.
- Sturdy hiking boots: The rocky trail demands good footwear with ankle support
- Layers: Temperatures drop as you climb, and the falls area can be cool and damp
- Rain jacket: Weather can change quickly in the mountains
- Camera: The falls are spectacular and worth documenting
- Snacks or lunch: Energy for the climb and descent
- Trekking poles: Helpful but not essential, especially for the descent
Winter Hiking Tips
Rainbow Falls is particularly beautiful in winter, but conditions require extra preparation. The ice formations on the falls can be spectacular, changing daily based on temperature and water flow.
- Traction devices: The trail can be icy. Microspikes or similar traction devices are highly recommended.
- Dress in layers: Bring extra insulation since you will cool down quickly when stopped
- Start early: Days are shorter in winter, so plan accordingly
- Check road conditions: Cherokee Orchard Road can close in snow or ice
- Be flexible: Ice formations change daily, so what you see may differ from photos
Approx Drive Time from Our Cabins
| Location | Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Our Cabins to Rainbow Falls Trailhead | Approx 10 minutes |
