Hike to Rainbow Falls

Hike 5.6 miles (9 km) roundtrip from Rainbow Falls Trailhead on Cherokee Orchard Road.

Smokies Life Photo

Overview

Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—consider a shuttle or alternate hikes listed below

Hike 5.6 miles (9 km) roundtrip through varied forest to a popular waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park named for the misty rainbow that often appears at its base on sunny afternoons.

This trail is well-traveled and maintained, but the climb to the falls is relatively steep with approximately 1,500 feet (457 m) in elevation gain from the trailhead to the falls. See some old growth trees along the trail, along with burn scars from a fire in 2016. This trail is also used to reach Mount LeConte, which is 6.7 miles (10.8 km) from the trailhead.

If taking this trail to Mount Le Conte, consider using Bullhead Trail in high water conditions; trail is often icy in winter

Length

5.6 miles (9 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

Please consider a shuttle or park at Rainbow Falls Trailhead on Cherokee Orchard Road (trailhead can be accessed from either the upper or lower lot). Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Pit toilets at trailhead

Alternate Hikes

• Hen Wallow Falls: 4.3 miles (6.9 km) roundtrip
• Lynn Camp Prong Cascades: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Location

Expect crowds and full parking at Rainbow Falls Trailhead—consider a shuttle

Take a shuttle to avoid parking stress.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Trail is very steep and rocky.