![]() There are several places around the base of the falls to sit back and relax (depending on the water level). (140ft is nothing to sneeze at you guys.) And it was also very wispy, thin, and ribbon-like that day. The first time I saw Rainbow Falls, I was blown away by just how tall it was. We were still a 1/2 mile away when I could begin to hear the faint roar of Rainbow Falls.īefore you know it this beautiful waterfall will start to come into view. This more level section will start after you hit a rock wall and the trail goes left along the base of it.Īt this point also, as you round a corner, you’ll start to be able to hear the waterfall. You’ll still be climbing a couple hundred feet of elevation, but it’s definitely more gradual. The last 1/2 mile of this hike is fairly level. However, I would say the worst part of the hike is between. Lastly, if you are hiking this when there are no leaves on the trees (like it was in early April for me), you’ll be hiking on a south-facing slope. I take a short break every 1/2 mile at a minimum to give Ellie a rest and to offer her some water. This goes doubly if you have a dog with you. So if you need to take a couple rests here, please do so. ![]() And I always find climbing stairs to be a lot more tiring than a slope. And is where almost all of the elevation of this hike lies. However a little after you cross over a bridge the trail turns northward (like making a right turn away from the river). The river itself is very beautiful and I enjoyed watching all the rapids. ![]() It’s very rocky in places so be sure to watch your footing as you’re making your way through here. The trail follows the southern bank of the Middle Saluda River. 8 miles or so of this hike is fairly easy and level. You’ll then follow this trail all the way to the waterfall. 6 miles until the Rainbow Falls Trail branches off to the right (red blazes). The main gist here is to stay on the Jones Gap Trail (blue blazes) for about. Here you’ll see a large kiosk with a map of the park to orient yourself. You’ll go over a bridge, pass by the trout pond, restrooms, and visitor center before crossing back over the Middle Saluda River. Once inside of the park, follow the signs towards the hiking trails. Now that that’s taken care of, let’s get onto the hike! And you can pay this at the drop box (you’ll need exact cash) or at the Ranger Station/Gift Shop in the park. Like most South Carolina State Parks, there is an admission fee. If I were you, I’d plan on getting there early. This is when I’ve hiked this trail and I’ve always gotten there before 10am. One way to get around this whole extra registration thing is to go during the week (Mon.-Thurs.). In that advisory a document will be linked with all the details and information on how to register. ![]() To check if a reservation is needed, go to the Jones Gap website and look for a Travel Advisory (left sidebar on desktop or near the top on mobile). AND you’ll need to make the reservation 48 hours in advance. This is basically a $5 parking registration and is in addition to the normal admission fee to the park. So you’ll need to do some pre-planning if you are heading to Jones Gap.įirst, if you are going on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, check to see if you need to make a reservation. And they have one parking lot for day-time visitors. Jones Gap State Park is a relatively small park. ![]()
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