Last Updated on September 12, 2023 by
Finally! Back on the trail after 6 months. While I have been enjoying the heck out of the history tours and sightseeing, they do not come with any sense of accomplishment at the end of it. This hike was the perfect reintroduction to the mountains although I must admit my old knees were not thanking me on the way down.
Rainbow Falls Trail Quick Facts
Trailhead – From the Sugarlands Visitor Center, head on 441 towards Gatlinburg. Turn right onto Cherokee Orchard Road and follow 3.5 miles to the parking lot for the trailhead
Trail Stats
Length – 5.65 miles (Total)
Difficulty – Moderate
Elevation Gain – 1,614 feet
Route Type – Out and Back
This is a fairly steady, gradual climb along the riverbed ending at one among seemingly hundreds of waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is so green here it felt more like jungle than simply forest, but hiking in the shade was absolutely glorious.
Arriving at the falls reminds me how much I enjoy hiking. Without another soul in sight, we had the opportunity to sit and immerse ourselves in ‘forest bathing’, or shinrin-yoku as coined by Tomohide Akiyama, Director of the Japanese Forestry Agency in 1982. While I have no personal knowledge of the efficacy of the practice as a health program, I do know it makes me happy. And that’s good enough for me.
A note of caution – much like Glacier, parking for the popular hikes is very limited. My recommendation – get on the trail by 8 AM to avoid the ‘tourists’.
Always Remember the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace
Plan Ahead and Prepare, Stay on Designated Trails, Dispose of Waste Properly, Don’t Take Anything You Didn’t Bring with You, Minimize Campfire Impacts, Respect Wildlife, Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Courtesy: Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics
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