We were left alone in a remote Tennessee park full of otherworldly rock formations

The Rainbow Falls Trail in the Smokies is now one of my new favorite hikes in Tennessee. I would even go so far as to say that this is one of the best hikes near Gatlinburg, which is a bold statement since there are so many great Tennessee hikes in this area. I had so much fun on this trail that I would now recommend this hike as a must-see when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. So what makes this trail an adventure? Let me explain…

Rainbow Falls has been on our list for a long time. The first time we visited Great Smoky Mountains National Park we planned to do this hike, but repairs were being done on the trail so we couldn’t go. We’ve tried to plan this many times and after three years of trying to make it work, we recently hit the road and started heading towards this waterfall.

Words cannot describe the feeling of euphoria at finally walking this path. Some of the anticipation and anticipation of this trail made this hike that much more exciting.

From the start of the hike, the trail gradually climbs over 1,600 feet in elevation to the falls. The total mileage is just under 5.5 miles, so this is no ordinary walk in the woods. I wouldn’t call it an “easy” hike, but that didn’t stop us from loving this trail. The forest through which you get to walk is quiet and very peaceful; gurgling streams, mountain views and a variety of vegetation greet you as you walk.

I especially love the iconic passerines found in the Smokies and the large sections of green ferns. There are a couple of smaller waterfalls before you reach your destination, which are also beautiful. I’ve heard a few people make the mistake and think that’s the end of the road, so make sure you don’t fall for these tricky drips; Rainbow Falls is much bigger!

Soon, we arrive at the foot of this impressive waterfall. There are plenty of rocks to rest and enjoy the scenery which is exactly what we did. We shed our heavy packs over a snack and watched in awe as the water gracefully plunged 80 feet down the cliff.

I couldn’t sit still for long because I just had to take a closer look at the waterfall. Part of the magic of Rainbow Falls is that you can actually walk behind the flowing water! So I climbed up carefully maneuvering the wet rocks and got behind the curtain of water. There is something so lovely about having the opportunity to walk on the other side of a waterfall…wow.

We lingered around the base of the falls for a while and I was glad we did because they offered us a change of scenery. The fog began to roll in and covered the area in a strange mist. As the swirling darkness passed, the entire forest seemed to change. What was once bright in the sun faded into the mist and we got a chance to witness a whole new dimension of this picturesque place.

I felt we had the rare opportunity to see this waterfall in multiple ways. The drops that flowed as they fell from behind the waterfall were among my favorites. When the sun was shining, we even got to see the flowing fall effects with a rainbow hidden in the mist. Then we witnessed a complete change of scenery as the mist rolled in and covered the forest in an ominous gray glow. It was a complete experience and worth the three-year wait.

After going there, I can say that this is one of the best waterfall hikes in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Of course, I still love Laurel Falls, and always will, but the Rainbow Falls Trail in the Smokies is now one of my favorites. I’ve always said the best hike in the park is Alum Cave, but this trail might just sneak into the top spot for me. One tip I would give before you go is to download the Rainbow Falls Trail map from AllTrails. That way you won’t be fooled by the first falls and you can enjoy the wonderful privilege of walking behind this impressive waterfall. We made a video of this trail that shows everything there is to love about Rainbow Falls, watch and enjoy!