Rainbow Falls is an 80-foot single-drop waterfall inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. A nicely paved road leads to the trailhead. From there, it is a beautiful 2.6-mile ascent through a hardwood forest. As the tallest single-drop falls in the park, it's a popular spot. Although the trail itself is well-maintained and signed so it's easy to follow, the hike requires a lot of uphill trekking and navigating roots, rocks, and stairs. Even in 40-degree weather, I found myself removing my warm layers by 0.5 miles in. Although this waterfall is tall, its flow may be light if visiting in autumn.
The trail is also popular among chipmunks. Listen for their chirps, and you may spot one, especially in the morning. If you're looking for something a little less intense, try nearby Baskins Falls or Grotto Falls.
Note: Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking pass when parking within the park boundaries for more than 15 minutes. A daily pass can be obtained for $5 or a weekly pass for $15 here.
Google Location: Rainbow Falls Trail, Bullhead Trail Trailhead, Tennessee 37738
GPS Location: 35.6623° N, 83.4637° W
Total Hike: 5.3 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: N/A
Pets: No
GPS Location: 35.6623° N, 83.4637° W
Total Hike: 5.3 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: N/A
Pets: No
