Dry Creek OHV Area

Plan Your Visit

Location

Hardin County, TN

Coordinates

35.0318°N, 88.1317°W

Trail Rating

Tech 5 — Moderate Difficulty

Trail Length

6.9 miles (Rainbow Falls Loop)

Best Seasons

Spring, Summer, Fall

Directions

Getting to Rainbow Falls

From Savannah, TN

  1. 1Head south on US-64 W / TN-128 S toward Pickwick Dam
  2. 2Turn right onto Dry Creek Road
  3. 3Follow Dry Creek Road to the OHV staging area
  4. 4From the staging area, take the Rainbow Falls Loop trail (6.9 miles)
  5. 5The falls are located approximately 3.5 miles into the loop

From Memphis, TN

  1. 1Take I-40 E to US-70 E toward Jackson, TN (approx. 80 miles)
  2. 2Continue on US-70 E to Savannah, TN (approx. 60 more miles)
  3. 3In Savannah, take TN-128 S toward Pickwick
  4. 4Turn right onto Dry Creek Road to the OHV staging area
  5. 5Total drive time: approximately 2.5 hours from Memphis
Jeeps at Rainbow Falls

Trail Details

Rainbow Falls Loop

Distance

6.9 miles

Full loop

Difficulty

Tech 5

Moderate — suitable for stock 4x4 with clearance

Elevation

162 m

Gain over the loop

Vehicle Width

Up to 50"

Standard SxS width

Surface

Dirt, rock, creek

Water crossings present

Season

Year-round

Best spring through fall

The Rainbow Falls Loop is a 6.9-mile off-road trail that winds through the Dry Creek OHV area of Hardin County, Tennessee. The trail is rated Tech 5 (Moderate) and is suitable for stock 4x4 vehicles with adequate ground clearance, as well as ATVs and side-by-sides up to 50 inches wide.

The trail features multiple creek crossings, rocky sections, and muddy stretches depending on recent rainfall. The terrain is characteristic of the Tennessee hill country — limestone outcroppings, dense hardwood forest, and clear-running creeks. The highlight of the loop is Rainbow Falls itself, a dramatic waterfall that tumbles over layered limestone ledges into a clear pool below.

Hikers are welcome on the trail system as well. The walk to Rainbow Falls is approximately 3–4 miles one way from the main staging area, depending on the route taken. Wear sturdy waterproof footwear, as creek crossings are unavoidable on foot.

When to Go

Seasonal Conditions

Spring

March – May

Water Level: High

Best waterfall flow after winter rains. Trails may be muddy. Wildflowers bloom along the creek. Temperatures mild (50–70°F).

Summer

June – August

Water Level: Moderate

Hot and humid (80–95°F). Creek crossings are refreshing. Lush green canopy provides shade. Bring plenty of water.

Autumn

Sept – November

Water Level: Low–Moderate

Spectacular fall foliage. Cooler temperatures (45–70°F). Lower water levels reveal more rock formations. Best photography season.

Winter

Dec – February

Water Level: Variable

Cold (25–50°F). Trails less crowded. Ice formations possible on the falls. Bare trees open up views. Occasional trail closures after snow/ice.

Be Prepared

Tips for Your Visit

Vehicle Prep

  • Ensure your vehicle has adequate ground clearance (minimum 8" recommended)
  • Check tire pressure before entering — aired-down tires improve traction on rocks
  • Carry a recovery strap, hi-lift jack, and basic tool kit
  • A winch is recommended but not required for Tech 5 terrain
  • Bring extra fuel — the nearest gas station is in Savannah or Counce

Trail Etiquette

  • Yield to uphill traffic on single-track sections
  • Pack out all trash — leave no trace
  • Stay on marked trails; avoid creating new tracks
  • Respect private property boundaries
  • Do not disturb the waterfall area — no cliff jumping

Safety

  • Cell service is limited in the Dry Creek area — download offline maps
  • Tell someone your plans and expected return time
  • Carry plenty of water — at least 2 liters per person
  • First aid kit and emergency blanket are recommended
  • Be aware of weather — flash flooding can occur in creek bottoms

While You're Here

Nearby Attractions

Pickwick Lake

Recreation

~10 miles

One of Tennessee's premier fishing and boating lakes, created by TVA's Pickwick Landing Dam in the 1930s. World-class bass, crappie, and catfish fishing.

Shiloh National Military Park

History

~15 miles south

Site of the bloody April 1862 Civil War battle. The park preserves the battlefield where nearly 24,000 men were killed, wounded, or went missing in two days.

Pickwick Landing State Park

Camping

~12 miles

Full-service state park with camping, cabins, marina, golf course, and swimming pool on the shores of Pickwick Lake.

Savannah, TN

Town

~20 miles north

The county seat of Hardin County. Home to the Tennessee River Museum, Cherry Mansion (Grant's Civil War HQ), and local dining and lodging.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Scenic Drive

~30 miles east

The historic 444-mile scenic parkway follows the route of the old Natchez Trace trail. Excellent for motorcycles, cycling, and scenic drives.

Counce, TN

Town

~8 miles

Small community on Pickwick Lake with boat ramps, marinas, and the historic Pickwick Plantation — said to have sheltered Jesse James.

The Outpost

Dining

Pickwick Area

A local favorite in the Pickwick area serving up hearty Southern fare. A great stop before or after a day on the trails or the lake.

The Pier

Dining

Pickwick Area

Waterfront dining on Pickwick Lake with fresh seafood, Southern classics, and views of the water. Perfect for a post-ride meal.

The Rib Cage

Dining

Counce / Savannah Area

Renowned for slow-smoked BBQ ribs and classic Tennessee barbecue. A must-visit for anyone spending time in the Pickwick Lake area.