Rainbow Falls SC, Jones Gap Falls, the 2 Breathtaking Waterfalls of Jones Gap State Park SC

Rainbow Falls SC is one of those waterfall hikes where the journey is almost as rewarding as the destination. On Saturday, March 20, 2021, I met Amanda at Jones Gap State Park for a hike to Rainbow Falls. It was a beautiful spring day, and the trail followed the Middle Saluda River through a peaceful, lush forest.

Recent rain had made the river crossings more challenging than usual. We encountered several places where water flowed across the trail, but by carefully hopping from rock to rock, we managed to keep our feet dry. The extra water also made the scenery even more beautiful, with rushing streams and waterfalls flowing much more strongly than they might after a dry spell.

Because Jones Gap State Park is a popular destination, parking on weekends required an online reservation before entering the park before 2 p.m. I actually appreciated this system, especially since the park is about a 2½-hour drive for me. Knowing I had a guaranteed parking spot was much better than making the long drive only to wait at the gate for someone to leave, as had been the case in previous years.

The Rainbow Falls SC hike is approximately 4 miles round trip and moderately strenuous, with just over 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The effort is well worth it when you reach the waterfall. Rainbow Falls plunges more than 100 feet down a rocky mountainside, surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest. After the recent rainfall, the increased flow made the waterfall particularly impressive.

The trail itself offers plenty to enjoy along the way. The Middle Saluda River accompanies much of the hike, while moss-covered rocks, towering trees, small cascades, and mountain scenery provide plenty of opportunities to stop and take photographs. For me, the scenery was just as memorable as reaching the falls.

We also hiked to Jones Gap Falls, an easier but still moderate 3.5-mile round-trip trail with approximately 470 feet of elevation gain. At about 50 feet tall, this waterfall was especially spectacular because of the recent rainfall. The powerful flow tumbling over the rocks made it another worthwhile stop and a great complement to Rainbow Falls.

Jones Gap State Park is a wonderful destination for waterfall lovers and hikers. With 18 campsites and more than 60 miles of trails, there is plenty to explore beyond the Rainbow Falls hike. The park is also known for its trout fishing, making it a popular destination for anglers as well as hikers.

I had such a wonderful time on this hike that choosing which photographs to publish was difficult. Between the river, waterfalls, rocky crossings, forest, and spring greenery, there seemed to be a photo opportunity around every corner. Rainbow Falls SC certainly lived up to its reputation and gave us a memorable day on the trail.

If You Go

Location: Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina
Rainbow Falls hike: Approximately 4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: Just over 1,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Waterfall height: More than 100 feet
Jones Gap Falls: Approximately 3.5 miles round trip with 470 feet of elevation gain
Best time to visit: After rainfall, when the waterfalls and streams are flowing strongly. Keep in mind that high water can make crossings more challenging.
Parking: Check current South Carolina State Parks requirements and reserve parking in advance when required.
What to bring: Water, sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, and trekking poles if you prefer extra stability on rocky or wet sections.
Photography tip: Don’t rush to the waterfall. The Middle Saluda River, smaller cascades, bridges, rocks, and forest scenery offer plenty of excellent photo opportunities along the way.