Last updated: July 17, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike to Mount LeConte on Rainbow Falls Trail
Bob Carr Photo
Overview
Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—consider a shuttle or alternate hikes listed below
One of five routes to Mount LeConte, the Rainbow Falls Trail includes a waterfall, rocky ascents, and forest views. The beginning of the 13.0-mile (20.9-km) roundtrip hike follows a creek and hikers will cross three bridges before arriving at Rainbow Falls approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from the trailhead.
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. Hikers are rewarded with expansive views atop 6,593-feet (2,010-m) tall Mount LeConte. Near the summit, the best views are at Cliff Top and Myrtle Point, both marked with signs.
Trail is often icy in cold weather.
In high water conditions, consider using Bullhead Trail to Mt LeConte.
Length
13.0 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip
Parking (consider a shuttle)
Rainbow Falls Trailhead on Cherokee Orchard Road
Nearest Restroom
Rainbow Falls Trailhead
Alternate Hikes
- Hike the Appalachian Trail & Boulevard Trail to Mount LeConte: 16.2 miles (26.1 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Bullhead Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.6 miles (21.9 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Trillium Gap Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.0 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte: 10.0 miles (16.1 km) roundtrip
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.
Activity Fee
Yes
A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.
Location
Expect crowds and full parking—consider a shuttle
Take a shuttle to avoid parking stress at Rainbow Falls Trailhead.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
Trail is steep and rocky, and includes stairs.