Tennessee is a natural wonderland for the casual hiker. It’s full of craggy mountains and riverside walking trails, and if you find yourself in one of the state’s beautiful cities then there’s bound to be a park or two you can explore. Of course, most folks find themselves outside during the warmer months, but Rainbow Falls Trail in Gatlinburg is one of the best winter hiking trails in Tennessee. Don’t believe us? Take a look below and fall in love with this winter wonderland.

Jamie Helson - AllTrails
You can find Rainbow Falls Trail in the greater Gatlinburg, Tennessee area, and it's known for its solid elevation gain and gorgeous natural views.
D Madison - AllTrails
Most folks tend to visit during the summer and autumn for the changing leaves and lush foliage, but during the wintertime, the 5-mile out-and-back trek is completely transformed...
Michael Hicks - Flickr
...into a winter wonderland.

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Michael Hicks - Flickr
The rocks are dappled with snow and ice, and the views are tinged with a little more magic than usual. You'll want to prepare for the trip with the correct footwear and clothes for the moderately-rated trek.
Michael Hicks - Flickr
Rainbow Falls itself becomes covered in ice, and the normally gushing waterway takes on an edge of wintertime beauty. Be prepared to gain over 1,500-feet elevation, friends. The waterfall may be pretty and the outlooks perfectly beautiful, but the trek there and back should take between 3 and 5 hours.
Michael Hicks - Flickr
Bring water and spare socks, and be prepared for rocky terrain that may be slippery. We'd recommend you don't climb on rocks around the waterfall due to the questionable safety of the area.
Erica Krol - AllTrails
Rainbow Falls Trail looks very different during the summer season, doesn't it? From lush woods and greenery to spare tree branches and mounds of snow, there's always something beautiful to be had.

You can learn more about Rainbow Falls Trail and the opportunity to hike its 5-mile length either here or here. Happy trails, folks!

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Rainbow Falls Trail, Tennessee 37738, USA