Go Hike TN

Day trip

Rainbow Falls, the Smokies’ Favorite Waterfall Hike

A steep climb to one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, with Gatlinburg close enough to make a full day of it.

The hikeRainbow Falls TrailGreat Smoky Mountains National Park · 5.4 miThe parkGreat Smoky Mountains National Park64 trails

Rainbow Falls earns its name on a sunny afternoon — mist off the falls catches the light just right to throw a rainbow across the rocks. It’s one of the most-hiked trails in the Smokies, and the climb explains why people keep coming back: steady, rocky, and worth every step once the falls come into view.

The trail covers 5.4 miles round trip with 1,741 feet of climb — rated Strenuous — following Le Conte Creek most of the way up. It gets busy on weekends and in peak season, so an early start helps, both for parking at the trailhead and for having the falls to yourself for a minute.

Make a day of it in Gatlinburg: grab a steak at The Peddler Steakhouse, American fare at Howard’s Restaurant, or settle in at The Greenbrier. Before you go, check the park’s official page for current conditions.

Make a day of it

  • The Peddler SteakhouseGatlinburg · Steakhouse
  • Howard's RestaurantGatlinburg · American
  • The GreenbrierGatlinburg · Restaurant