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 Reporter |
Summary: The first segment of this hike to Rainbow Falls is one of the most popular destinations in the park year round but the crowds thin out past the falls and the Bullhead Trail is seldom used. Rainbow Falls Trail is rocky and this hike is best suited as described, as coming down Bullhead Trail is a better trail and more sure footed. The climb will be long and gradual is most spots and after you have hiked 6 mil you will come to the Bullhead Trail intersection. Continue for 0.5 mi to Mt LeConte Lodge and a recommended side trip to Cliff Tops for a great lunch spot. It will be a 0.3 mi hike out and then 0.3 hike back to this intersection before returning. You will take the Rainbow Falls Trail for 0.5 mi to the Bullhead Trail intersection and follow the Bullhead Trail for 5.9 mi until you reach the Old Sugarlands Trail then turn right to the Rainbow Falls parking area. In less than a 1/2 mi you will be back to your car. Trailhead: I-40 Exit 407 follow Hwy 66 South 8 miles to 441 South to Gatlinburg;turn left at traffic light #8, take Historic Nature Trail Dr. The road becomes one-way, turn right into Rainbow Falls Parking area. The trailhead is a path a few yards south into the woods, oppisite the paved road. (Lat:35.67575 Lon:-83.4869) Trail Guides for Mt LeConte via Rainbow Falls & Bullhead Trails: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Day & Overnight hikes in GSMNP by Johhny Malloy (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: GSMNP 865-436-1200 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted 74 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Sevier County Hiking, Sevier County Trails, Sevier County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
