Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls trail at Jones Gap State Park SC is a must hike for the intermediate+ hiker. Make no mistake, this trail is very strenuous and not for beginning hikers. Take a good amount of water, a few snacks, or lunch – you’ll need it! The hike begins as soon as you leave the parking lot and you’re right on the trail. It parallels the Middle Saluda River for approximately .5 miles with beautiful scenery and wonderful sounds of rushing water in the river, before you branch onto the Rainbow Falls trail. Once on the trail, the ascent begins and quickly gains steepness and elevation. The trail is challenging with many steps, tree roots and rocks, and did I forget to mention – a steady increase in elevation gain. The payback is worth the climb, the views of the waterfall are stunning and you can sit on the large rock formations and take a much needed break before the descent. Luckily, the hike back is all downhill but very technical and still challenging to navigate but goes quickly and you arrive back down before you know it. This is an out and back trail which will take an average of 2.5 - 4hrs (it took me 3hrs), the park grounds are well maintained, and trails are well marked and easy to navigate the directions.

Amazing hike, good to do on the week day as then reservation is not needed to enter the park. Hike is plowing you to get very close to the waterfall (you are able to cross the water and get to the other side)

Really incredible waterfall. Hike was short but very challenging. Well worth the effort.