About
Length (round trip)13.4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain3,820 ft up
Typical time8 hr 30 min
TrailheadRainbow Falls trailhead, Roaring Fork
SurfaceRocky and rooty, relentless
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTrail is steep, rocky, and includes stairs.
What you'll see 💧 Waterfall⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views

Overview Expect extreme crowding and limited parking-consider a shuttle or alternate hikes listed below One of five routes to Mount Le Conte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Rainbow Falls Trail includes a waterfall, rocky ascents, and forest views. The strenuous hike is 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip. Hike along a creek and across three bridges before arriving at Rainbow Falls approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from the trailhead before continuing to Mount Le Conte. Past the falls, lush forests line the trail and hikers will intersect the Bullhead Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and Trillium Gap Trail before reaching the summit (check a map for full details). Hikers are rewarded with expansive views atop Mount Le Conte-6,593 feet (2,010 m) tall. Near the summit, the best views are at Cliff Top and Myrtle Point, both marked with signs. In cold weather, prepare for ice on the trail and potential falling icicles. Microspikes (chains or small spikes to slip on shoes for better traction) recommended in winter. In high water conditions, consider using Bullhead Trail to Mount Le Conte . Length 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip Parking & Trailhead Please consider a shuttle or park at Rainbow Falls Trailhead on Cherokee Orchard Road. Don't forget your parking tag . Nearest Restroom Rainbow Falls Trailhead Alternate Hikes Appalachian Trail & Boulevard Trail to Mount Le Conte : 16.2 miles (26.1 km) roundtrip Bullhead Trail to Mount Le Conte : 13.6 miles (21.9 km) roundtrip Trillium Gap Trail to Mount Le Conte : 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip Alum Cave Trail to Mount Le Conte : 10 miles (16.1 km) roundtrip

Tips
Notoriously hard on the feet - rock and root the whole way. Combine it with Bullhead for a loop back to the same car park.
Location

Rainbow Falls trailhead, Roaring Fork

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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