A waterfall reached via a moderate hiking trail with historic stone steps and a suspension bridge over Great Trough Creek at Trough Creek State Park.
Loading current conditions…
Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.
Rainbow Falls Trail at Trough Creek State Park begins at Trough Creek Drive and features historic stone steps built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a suspension bridge crossing Great Trough Creek, and scenic creek views. The trail is rated as more difficult and showcases the gorge’s geologic features.
The route leads past Rainbow Falls and continues up a series of stone steps overlooking Abbot Run before reaching Balanced Rock, a notable geological formation. Water flow in the creek determines the waterfall’s visual impact; spring runoff typically offers the most dramatic views.
Dogs on leash are permitted. The trail combines natural beauty with historic infrastructure, making it a worthwhile destination for those exploring central Pennsylvania’s state park system. Trough Creek State Park is free to enter with no vehicle fee.
Spring through fall when water levels support good flow and the suspension bridge is fully operational.
1–1.5 hours
You're uncomfortable crossing suspension bridges or prefer easier terrain.
No fee or permit requirement was published on the managing agency's site when we last checked — confirm current conditions before you go, since these change.
The managing agency's page (linked below) has the current trailhead and route details — round-trip distance wasn't published when we checked.
Yes, per the managing agency's own page — but check current leash rules before you go.
We track 7 waterfalls in Laurel Highlands PA.
pa.gov
PA DCNR Trough Creek State Park hiking page, checked Sept 2026 (raw page text verified): trail 'starts at Trough Creek Drive. It passes over Great Trough Creek via a suspension bridge then past beautiful Rainbow Falls. The trail ascends a flight of CCC-built stone steps overlooking Abbot Run and ends at...Balanced Rock,' rated 'more difficult' hiking. The exact mileage figure attached to this segment in DCNR's page markup was ambiguous on re-check, so trail_length_round_trip_miles is left null rather than guessed. No height given. No closure found.
Checked September 2026.