Rainbow Falls
Montana • 47 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls plunges over a sheer ledge of Kootenai Formation sandstone on the Missouri River in Great Falls, Montana, and is one of the five Great Falls of the Missouri that Lewis and Clark famously documented. The curtain of water stands about 47 feet (14 m) high and stretches roughly 1,320 feet (402 m) across, producing broad, photogenic flows that change with the season. You can spot Rainbow Falls just upstream from Crooked Falls and downstream from Colter Falls and Rainbow Dam, giving visitors a dramatic stretch of river and geology to explore.
The Setting
Rainbow Falls sits at 3,205 feet along the Missouri River, in the mountains of Montana. The falls drop 47 feet.
Height: 47 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The access route to Rainbow Falls is an out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The trail follows the Missouri River and provides multiple viewpoints of the falls; expect some short, moderate-grade sections rather than sustained steep climbs. Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness, the route rewards with close riverfront perspectives of the 47-foot cascade and expansive river channel.
What to Expect
The falls drop 47 feet. Dogs are welcome.
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 allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $8.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Rainbow Falls is during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and viewing platforms to avoid slippery rocks and strong river currents. Be cautious near the water, especially with children and pets.
Current Water Conditions
4,320 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
3.06 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Missouri River near Great Falls MT (12 km away).
Today
Moderate
4959 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
4888 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
4582 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
4812 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
4475 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
4379 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
4378 cfs
8/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid 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 Malmstrom AFB hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Rainbow Falls is located within Giant Springs State Park, just a short drive from Great Falls, Montana. Visitors can access the falls via paved roads leading to the park and nearby viewing areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is parking available at Giant Springs State Park, with designated areas for visitors to access the falls and nearby trails.
Elevation
3,205 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.533189° N, -111.205671° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking and enjoy the falls with fewer crowds. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months, as the trail has limited shade.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.
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
Wingate by Wyndham Great Falls
The Gibson Hotel Great Falls, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Hotel Arvon
Comfort Inn Great Falls South
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Giant Springs State Park, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Black Eagle Falls, and the River's Edge Trail.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot a variety of birds, including eagles and herons, as well as deer and other small mammals in the area.
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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