I hiked this trail on May 4th, 2023 with my brother and my mom.

Though only officially named for Rainbow Falls, this hike actually hits several waterfalls. Another technicality regarding this hike is that the vast majority of it actually sits on the land of Pisgah National Forest.

The trail starts off with a fairly gentle descent and a gravel pathway. Once the trail reaches Pisgah, the trail becomes compacted dirt and is slightly narrower. After some hiking, you'll reach Stairstep Falls.

You can follow a narrower, more informal strail downstream from the backcountry campsite at Stairstep Falls down to Sidepocket Falls.

On the way to the next major falls, you'll have several opportunities to poke your head out into Horsepasture Creek, like the views below.

The next waterfall on the trail is Hidden Falls

After that, you'll hit Rainbow Falls, for which the trail is named. This fall is certainly the most impressive on the trail. Even from some of the distant viewing platforms, you'll be buffeted with mist.

Next is Turtleback Falls, a comparatively small and calm waterfall. The area offers several great spots for sitting and relaxing.

Finally, you can view Drift Falls. Sadly, the falls themselves are on private property, so you can only see these from a slight distance.

For a map of the trail click here.