Adventures in
Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Rainbow Falls is a 5.1 mile hike that is a must do while in The Smokies. It is an out-and-back hike that is listed as “hard” by AllTrails. We don’t necessarily think it’s hard but it does take some level of physical ability to endure the 2.7 mile gradual uphill climb to the falls.
Because of the interest in this trail we arrived at the trailhead before 7 am. The extra effort of waking up early was SO worth the effort:
#1 We had the trail almost all to ourselves (only spotted 2 other hikers) on the way up to the falls.
#2 We had lots of time at the falls by ourselves for Mike to capture these beautiful photos.
#3 The trip back down was another story….. there was a constant stream of hikers making their way up the trail.
#4 When we finished our hike around noon, the parking lot was FULL, traffic was backed up and cars were scattered everywhere.
We noted, that since our last visit to this particular trail, about 20 years ago, there have been some major improvements. Although it’s an uphill climb for 2.7 miles the trail itself is relatively well groomed for easy travel.
We always find it interesting that no matter the warnings about slippery rocks and preserving the landscape such as “Stay Off”, drownings, and death have occurred there, etc. There are always those humans that will ignore the warnings, traverse all over the rocks and try and get right under the powerful water falling from above.
This particular trip we witnessed a gentleman take a couple of falls while doing just that. Then there was a drowning at Abrams Falls where a 73 year old man was entrapped in underwater debris. Please be conscientious of the environment and your safety. These warnings and notices are there for a reason.
Definitely recommend Rainbow Falls but be physically prepared for the slog up and take water to drink, no matter the temperature!
We give this a big
Dream Big, Travel Far, Live Well…
What’s Next?
More Great Smokey Mountain National Park adventures!
Enjoying our Photography?
If you enjoy our photography, you can view and purchase from our Fine Art America site. Please check us out for featured nature photography from Florida to the Pacific Northwest.
Nspired Adventures 