RAINBOW FALLS AT JONES GAP STATE PARK JUNE 2020
We are still in the COVID-19 quarantine.
With the weather warming up in the upstate of South Carolina it is much more pleasant to take our adventures to the mountains where temps are a tad cooler and the water runs cold and fast. We reserved our spot (that’s right, you have to reserve a spot in advance - remember to do that!) at Jones Gap State Park. Jones Gap sits on the Middle Saluda River and is located in the upstate of SC just below the NC border and has several great trail systems worth exploring. Jones Gap has over 60+ miles of hiking trails and is the home to the Jones Gap Falls Trail, Jones Gap & Palmetto Trail, Raven Cliff Falls trail, Rainbow Falls Trail, Cold Springs Branch Trail, and Hospital Rock & Fall Creek Trail.
Our group set off to do the Rainbow Falls Trail which out and back was around 5.5 miles or so. The hike isn’t overly strenuous and has great views of the Middle Saluda River, a couple rock faces, and small waterfalls on your way up to the top. Once you reach the top you are welcomed by a magnificent 125ft waterfall just rising in the sky before you. There are a few very cool areas to climb up on either side of the waterfall to get a different perspective and additional photos you may want. The area is broad enough that multiple groups do not feel like they are on top of one another, you have plenty of space to break out your picnic and enjoy the provided experience. The cool misty air is just what you need after working hard to reach the top! If you haven’t experienced this hike before I highly recommend adding it to your list!
