Rainbow Falls Trail

Named after the highest single-drop falls in the park.

Plan Around Rainbow Falls Trail

A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.

Add to trip View park guide

Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.

Rainbow Falls Trail Details

Although named after the highest single-drop falls in the park, Rainbow Falls, this trail actually continues past the falls and climbs up Mt. LeConte, the 6th highest mountain east of the Mississippi River. The trail follows Mill Creek, named as such for it's historic role in the local mill industry until it reaches the falls, and continues through a number of steep switchbacks through sunny, low shrubs and sandstone outcroppings until intersecting with a side trail headed to Rocky Spur. The Spur is a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the surrounding valley. As a result of the trail's steep grade past the falls, most hikers chose to turn around at the falls. There are trails to the peaks for LeConte from the Rocky Spur area.

Difficulty

High

Distance

6.6 miles

Estimated time

5.5 hours

Region

N/A