Are there fees or permits required for Rainbow Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Rainbow Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Rainbow Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Rainbow Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,820 ft³/s · About average

Rainbow Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Rainbow Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Rainbow Falls.

Wyoming

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Yellowstone National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

Hatters! CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

sdwat54 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

James St. John CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is a scenic cascade tucked inside Yellowstone National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The falls make a rewarding half-day destination for hikers and outdoor lovers, offering the kind of classic Yellowstone water-and-wildlife backdrop that’s perfect for photography and a peaceful break from longer backcountry routes. The hike to the falls is approachable yet satisfying — it’s officially listed as a moderate out-and-back that covers roughly 3.0 miles with about 500 feet of elevation gain. Because the site sits within Yellowstone National Park, plan for typical park regulations and seasonal access conditions; the trail is best for hikers with moderate fitness who want a relatively short, scenic outing under NPS stewardship.

The Setting

Rainbow Falls sits at 6,755 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Union Falls (260 ft) lies 3.5 miles to the north. Also nearby: Cave Falls (20 ft, 5.8 mi).

Union Falls Cave Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 3.0 miles (round trip as reported). Elevation gain: approximately 500 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Managed by: National Park Service within Yellowstone National Park. No USFS trail name or number was specified in the provided data; surface, grade, and trail class details were not available in the supplied information.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene hike through the wilderness, culminating in views of Rainbow Falls cascading over rocky terrain. The area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty.

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?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit is during late spring through early fall when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is favorable.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.

Safety Information

Water temperature is currently 46°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.

Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear. Be cautious of wildlife and avoid hiking alone. Check trail conditions before your visit.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Strong

1,820 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

762 1.1k 2.8k 4.1k

Based on 42 years of record

4.50 ft

Water depth at gauge

46°F

Very cold

Expect numbness within minutes

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 46 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SNAKE RIVER AB JACKSON LAKE AT FLAGG RANCH WY

USGS 13010065

11.0 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 486 sq mi

Altitude: 6,802 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Rainbow Falls is located within the Bridger-Teton National Forest, near the town of Dubois, Wyoming. Access typically requires a hike along established trails in the Wind River Range.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at trailheads leading to the falls, but specific details about the parking area are not well-documented. Visitors should check local trailhead information for updates.

Elevation

6755 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.142152° N, -110.880215° W

Land Management

Yellowstone National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.

This trail sits at 6,755 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 27% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen

UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.

Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)

Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.

Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets

You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.

ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses

High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 3.0 miles and 500 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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Cave Falls Campground

6.7 miles away · 0 sites

This campgrond is situated on the banks of Fall River in Wyoming along the south border of Yellowstone National Park. Cave Falls Campground has 23 single site units and a terrific area for fishing. Each campsite has fire rings, grills and picnic tables. Located throughout the campground are vault toilets, water faucets, bear proof storage boxes, and a dumpster. The campground is located in grizzly bear habitat that requires special precautions be taken with food storage.

Book on Recreation.gov