Outbound Collective logo

Hike to Rainbow Falls

Signal Mountain, Tennessee

4.7/5
based on 10 reviews

Details

Distance

5.7 miles

Elevation Gain

1500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Clare Healy

Explore this 80-foot high, hidden waterfall that produces a mist rainbow visible on sunny afternoons. The hike to Rainbow Falls is located less than 10 miles from downtown Chattanooga and can provide easy access to Signal Point for sweeping views of the Tennessee River gorge.

Most Rainbow Lake Trail hikers have seen or heard the majestic Rainbow Falls, but fewer have ventured down the treacherous path to the falls themselves. Albeit a bit daunting, especially if there has been recent rain, the path from Rainbow Lake Trail down to Rainbow Falls is a rewarding trek for those capable.

The hike from the Rainbow Lake Trailhead to Rainbow Lake is casual and great for first time hikers. When arriving at the lake, you'll find an area to rest, eat lunch, take pictures, or explore the dam. In the summer, you'll find that many hikers swim in this area. If you decide to continue on your way to Rainbow Falls or Signal Point, you'll head down creek until you hit the Signal Mountain swinging bridge. Jump onto the bridge and grab those Instagram-worthy shots, but do not cross it! You are going to stay on the current side of the creek to follow the white trail blazes towards Signal Point for a little less than a mile.

Once you get to another small, rustic bridge (this time, you WILL cross it), you are just a few minutes walk away from the path to the falls. As of October 2015, the trail to the falls was marked by a green rope wrapped around a tree (but do not rely solely on this marker). There are multiple ways down to the falls, but the western-most path, or the one furthest from the trailhead, is the easiest of the bunch. But don't be mislead. Just because this is the easiest way down does not mean it is an easy trek, especially if the trail is muddy. It is a steep cliff and the trail is unmaintained, so each step must be taken with caution. Ropes have been set up between trees which are very helpful getting down to the falls.

Upon arriving at the falls, hang that hammock, bask in the refreshing mist coming off the falls, shoot some photos or enjoy a snack before heading back up to the trail.

Once back onto the main trail, you can continue west to Signal Point for beautiful views of the TN River or head back to Rainbow Lake trailhead. Whatever you do, be sure to grab some tasty BBQ from Shuford's Smokehouse on your way back!

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin
Hiking
Easy Parking
Forest
Groups
Lake
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Swimming Hole

Hike to Rainbow Falls Reviews

We weren't able to go the full length this weekend but will be back! Like others mentioned the parking lot only has enough spaces for a few cars... we ended up parking along the road as several others had done also. It was an easy trek down to the dam with only a small section somewhat steep with gravel. Be sure your shoes have traction and you'll be fine. We were a little disappointed when we ran into some people with their dogs unleashed. I really wish people would use leashes - hence why we'll be back without our dogs. Our dogs are VERY freindly but two too many times we've had other dogs run up to ours that created a very scary situation. I'd rather just avoid it so we can enjoy our hike and the beauty many of these trail offer!

This is very close to my house like a 3 min drive to get to the trail very fun don't miss doing it

Not gonna lie, you definitely have to work for this one! But it is totally worth it. People with children probably shouldn't attempt to reach the falls, as the hike down is extremely tricky. I did this hike in summer, so it was very muggy and hot. As the author suggested, I bet fall would be a wonderful time to visit!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Edwards Point

Hike and Swim at the Middle Creek Slide

Hike to Middle Creek Falls

Snoopers Rock Trail

Photograph Snoopers Rock

Park Day at Renaissance Park