Rainbow Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within Glacier National Park in Montana. It is part of the St. Mary River system and is known for its stunning cascades and vibrant surroundings. The waterfall is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
The Setting
Rainbow Falls sits at 4,245 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the mountains of Montana.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Upper Bertha Falls (246 ft) lies 5.9 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Cameron Falls (75 ft, 7.1 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Rainbow Falls is a moderately challenging out-and-back hike that winds through lush forested areas and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained but may have some rocky or uneven sections. Hikers will be rewarded with a close-up view of the cascading waterfall, which is particularly impressive during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through Glacier National Park's pristine wilderness, with opportunities to see wildlife, wildflowers, and stunning mountain vistas. The waterfall itself is a highlight, offering a tranquil spot for photography or relaxation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation or entry permit is required to access Glacier National Park during peak season. Check the National Park Service website for details on obtaining a permit.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Rainbow Falls is during the late spring and early summer when the water flow is strongest due to snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides the most accessible trail conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Always carry bear spray and be aware of your surroundings. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost. Weather in Glacier National Park can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain, wind, or sudden temperature drops.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (24 km away).
Today
Low
57 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
60 cfs
3/10Sun
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
50 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
57 cfs
4/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Babb hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 90 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 4,236 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 92 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 71 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,236 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 90 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rainbow Falls is located within Glacier National Park, approximately 22.9 miles from Babb, 25.4 miles from Polebridge, and 26.5 miles from West Glacier. Visitors can access the park via the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which provides access to many trailheads. Specific directions to the trailhead for Rainbow Falls may vary, so consulting a park map or ranger station is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Glacier National Park. Availability may vary depending on the season and time of day, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
4,245 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.949151° N, -113.898364° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may have uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, as Glacier National Park is home to both black and grizzly bears.
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With 2.5 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Aspen Village
Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort
Prince of Wales Hotel
Waterton Glacier Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
14.6 miles away · 110 sites
Overview The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not availa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include St. Mary Lake, the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and other waterfalls such as Virginia Falls and St. Mary Falls.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer, mountain goats, black bears, and grizzly bears. Birdwatchers may also spot a variety of species, including eagles and hawks.
Cities near Rainbow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Rainbow Falls
31 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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