Rainbow Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the Ausable Chasm area of the Adirondack Mountains in New York. On sunny days the spray catches the light and throws off vivid rainbows, making the short approach and the bridge viewpoint especially rewarding for photographers and casual hikers alike. The falls’ mix of mist, rock and forest create a classic Adirondack scene that feels both wild and accessible. The falls sit on private land within the Adirondack Mountain Reserve Easement and are managed by SDC, so visitors should respect signage and stay on designated paths. Access is typically via an out-and-back hiking route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the round trip is rated moderate and is popular for day use. Bring sturdy footwear for the steeper, uneven sections and plan extra time if you want to linger at the bridge viewpoint or explore nearby Ausable Chasm features.
The Setting
Rainbow Falls sits at 1,978 feet within Adirondack Mountain Reserve Easement, fed by the Vanderwhacker Brook Trib, in the hills of New York.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Beaver Meadows Falls (60 ft) lies 0.9 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back, 2.4 miles (round trip) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route to Rainbow Falls follows well-used hiking paths in the Ausable Chasm area and is most commonly viewed from a bridge and nearby overlooks. Expect a mix of flat paths and moderate climbs; some short sections are uneven or steep, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trail is straightforward and does not require technical gear, but take care on wet or icy days near the falls where surfaces can be slippery.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a stunning waterfall with a dramatic cascade, especially after rainfall. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and are a popular spot for photography. Rainbows are often visible in the mist on sunny days.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak, or in the fall for beautiful foliage views.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls and chasm edges. The rocks can be slippery, and the currents are strong. Follow all posted signs and guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
0.54 ft
Water depth at gauge
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 VANDERWHACKER BROOK TRIB 1 NEAR BOREAS RIVER NY (23 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
0 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
0 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
0 cfs
4/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid May, peaking in April.
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 Mineville 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 110 feet through Rainbow Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,979 feet.
The ground changes about 58 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 44 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,979 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 110 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rainbow Falls is located near the Ausable Chasm in the Adirondack region of New York. It can be accessed via Route 9, and the falls are visible from the Ausable Chasm Bridge.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Ausable Chasm Visitor Center, which provides access to the falls and surrounding trails.
Elevation
1,978 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.118664° N, -73.824583° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the chasm trails. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel
Lake Placid Inn: Main Street
Grandview Lake Placid
Lake Placid Inn: Residences
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
Ausable Chasm, High Falls Gorge, Lake Placid, Whiteface Mountain.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other Adirondack wildlife.
Cities near Rainbow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Rainbow Falls
31 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Rainbow Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.