Hidden in the dense woods of Signal Mountain lies Rainbow Lake, a living postcard of Tennessee history and outdoor chaos. Built in the 1910s, this spot wasn’t just a calm lake; it was the crown jewel of early Signal Mountain, where leisure met adrenaline—and yes, there were donkeys. More on that in a minute.

Rainbow Lake: Where Signal Mountain Went Wild

Rainbow Lake didn’t just happen—it was engineered into existence in 1916 by the legendary C.E. James. This guy wasn’t just some rich businessman; he was a mastermind who decided Signal Mountain should be Chattanooga’s go-to resort destination. So, what did he do? He built the Signal Mountain Hotel (now the Alexian Village) and threw in Rainbow Lake to seal the deal. The lake wasn’t just a pretty face; it was the epicenter of the action, offering guests everything from fishing and boating to picnics straight out of a Norman Rockwell fever dream.

Donkey Rides: The OG Uber

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Back in the day, if you wanted to experience Rainbow Lake properly, you didn’t just stroll down to the shore like some pedestrian. Oh no, you hopped onto a donkey. That’s right—hotel guests could saddle up and take a bumpy, clunky, and utterly unforgettable donkey ride down the rugged trails to the lake. It wasn’t exactly glamorous, but it was a guaranteed story to tell. Imagine jostling your way through the forest, gripping the reins of a less-than-enthusiastic donkey while trying not to tumble into the dirt. Thrilling? Absolutely. Comfortable? Not so much.

From Resort Glam to DIY Adventure

Fast forward a century, and while the donkeys have retired (probably to a cushy field somewhere), Rainbow Lake has kept its spirit of wild adventure. Today, the Rainbow Lake Trail is a favorite for hikers looking to immerse themselves in a mix of natural beauty and history. The trail winds through creeks, over rickety bridges, and past the iconic dam that’s still standing strong. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for boulders and slippery spots because Rainbow Lake doesn’t believe in making things easy for you.

But here’s the thing: during the drier months of summer, that picturesque “lake” can morph into a swampy, mosquito-infested poop hole. Yeah, nature’s not always Insta-ready. While it’s still a beautiful hike, the dreamy waters of yesteryear might feel more like a boggy afterthought. It’s a far cry from its heyday, when guests paddled their boats and admired crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding mountains.

A History That Lives On

Rainbow Lake has been around for more than 100 years, but it hasn’t aged a day in terms of charm (even with the occasional swamp vibes). Whether you’re a history nerd, a nature lover, or just someone looking to escape the grind, it’s a place that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and maybe even channel your inner adventurer.

Repping the Rainbow Lake Spirit

Inspired by the grit, beauty, and donkey-powered adventures of Rainbow Lake’s past, we’ve designed a t-shirt that captures its raw, untamed energy. This isn’t just another tee—it’s a badge of honor for anyone who’s braved the trails, explored the history, or just loves a good story.

So throw on this shirt and let it remind you of Tennessee’s wildest lake, where every rock tells a story, every mosquito is out for blood, and every adventure is worth the sunburn. Because Rainbow Lake wasn’t just a destination—it was Signal Mountain’s way of daring you to dive in, donkey ride and all.