Rainbow Falls
Tennessee • 80 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a stunning 80-foot waterfall located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. It is named for the rainbow that often appears in the mist on sunny days.
The Setting
Rainbow Falls sits at 1,020 feet along the Duck River, in the foothills of Tennessee. The falls drop 80 feet.
Height: 80 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The Rainbow Falls Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes visitors through lush forested terrain with steady elevation gain. The trail features rocky sections and some stream crossings, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 80 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Rainbow Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the falls with ice formations.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and along the trail, especially after rain. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Watch for wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Current Water Conditions
22 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 79 years of record
0.00 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (3 km away).
Today
Roaring
24 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
23 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
21 cfs
8/10Tue
Roaring
22 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
21 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
21 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
24 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late March, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Manchester hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 125 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 80 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 1,018 feet.
The ground changes about 49 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 107 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,018 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 125 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rainbow Falls is accessed via the Rainbow Falls Trail, which begins at the Rainbow Falls Trailhead located off Cherokee Orchard Road near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Rainbow Falls Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
1,020 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.483132° N, -86.147768° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the trail can be strenuous. Be cautious on wet or icy sections of the trail, especially in winter.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Arnold AFB
Best Western Manchester
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Newly Renovated
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Gatlinburg, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, and other hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Rainbow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Rainbow Falls
31 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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