Rainbow Falls Trail, Smoky Mountain hiking trails, Rainbow Falls trails

Rainbow Falls Trail

All Smoky Mountain Vacations
214 Sharon Dr.
Seymour, TN 37865

Rainbow Falls Trail is located just outside of Gatlinburg off of Cherokee Orchard Road. Rated moderate to strenuous, this 6.4 mile round trip hike follows LeConte Creek up to the dramatic 80 foot fall, the highest waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. On 441 heading into Gatlinburg, take a left at light #8, Historic Nature Trail Road. Once you enter the Park, the road name changes to Cherokee Orchard Road. Continue 3.4 miles to the Rainbow Falls/Bullhead parking lot and trailhead on the right. Photos courtesy of Rich Stevenson.

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Beginning at the upper end of Cherokee Orchard, the trail meanders alongside LeConte Creek, which continues to flow into Gatlinburg where it intersects with the Little Pigeon River. Rainbow Falls trail continues past the falls and intersects with Alum Cave Trail which leads up to the Mt. LeConte lodge. Elevation gain to the falls is 1,750 feet and elevation gain up to Mt. LeConte climbs nearly 4,000 feet.

During spring and early summer, the trail blooms with wildflowers and is usually busy with traffic, as this is the most popular falls in the Smoky Mountains.

View of the Rainbow Falls Trail

Smaller waterfall on the trail leading to the falls

Unusual tree formations, cove hardwood and hemlock forests, fields of boulders, mountain laurel, wildflowers and mushrooms line the trail.

2.8 miles into the trail you will arrive at the falls. During wet months, the waterfall is a beautiful rush of water that cascades down and when rainfall is scarce, the falls are simply a trickle. There is a log to sit on at the base of the waterfall that provides a fantastic view.

Make sure you have packed your camera for this somewhat challenging but enjoyable hike!

Rainbow Falls

All Smoky Mountain Vacations
214 Sharon Dr.
Seymour, TN 37865

info@allsmokymountainvacations.com