Absolutely loved this trail. Mostly uphill, but not too steep, on the way to the falls. Following river and forest trails. When I went, around 8am, there was some foot traffic but it wasn’t busy. … Full review by Steve B
Aug 21, 2024
This trail is beautiful. It has a steady incline all the way to the falls. You pass other smaller falls on the way to the top. Dont stop at the first small falls, keep going around to Rainbow Falls. … Full review by lovetravel2
Jun 23, 2024
This a fun hike with lots to see along the way. Make sure to pack water and be on the lookout for bears. We saw two on our hike. You really have to look to find the bears. Full review by 35elisabethp
Hi, our family of 4 adults (experienced hikers) will be visiting the Smoky Mountains over Christmas break. We are planning to hike Rainbow Falls. For planning purposes, how long do you think it would take to complete the 5.5 miles? (Note: I walk about 3.5 miles daily, and it takes me about 45 minutes, but not sure with the uphill how much time i should allow for this trail). Thank you in advance!
A:
I would allow for much more time than you think for hiking. Trail is nice but uphill on the way in, Rocky with switchbacks. Also I would make sure roads to get there are accessible in …
I would allow for much more time than you think for hiking. Trail is nice but uphill on the way in, Rocky with switchbacks. Also I would make sure roads to get there are accessible in winter. I know the park closes some roads in winter. We hiked down this trail from an overnight in LeConte. Summertime. As we got closer to the bottom we came across more and more people. It is a popular hike, with many people who should not have been hiking (barefoot, in strappy high heels etc). My recommendation is to start early to avoid crowds especially at the falls. If you are going in December it might not be such a problem.
What's your opinion about taking a 5-year-old on this, or part of this trail? Are there worthy stops along the way that serve as a good ending point? Or, is there a "must get to spot" at the end? 3 hours for adults = 4+ with a 5yo, I'm guessing. Cheers, Wade Louisiana
A:
This trail starts out along a creek but then diverges into the forest with lots of switchbacks. I was just there about 3 or 4 months ago and it was our 2nd time to the falls. The first …
This trail starts out along a creek but then diverges into the forest with lots of switchbacks. I was just there about 3 or 4 months ago and it was our 2nd time to the falls. The first time we took the hike our youngest was 5 or 6. She made it most of the way without being carried. That being said it is a very tedious and bland hike most of the way and there really isn't much to see past the beginning until you get to the falls themselves. Also there are lots and lots of rocks and boulders you have to climb over on the way up. I would opt for Laurel Falls which is partially paved though it does get narrow with a steep drop off nearer to the top. We took our kids on that hike when they were very young and there are lots of parents with smaller kids on that hike; it's a shorter hike and the falls are much better. Have a wonderful time and welcome to Tennessee!
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Frequently asked questions
Q:
Does the park have cabins for rent?
A:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers campgrounds, but no motels or rental cabins within the park except LeConte Lodge. The lodge is only accessible by hiking and is located...
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