Rainbow Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls sits tucked on the Menominee Reservation in northern Wisconsin, on land owned by DESG and managed by the Menominee tribal authorities (designation/manager: TRIB). The falls are a photogenic cascade framed by mature trees and quiet riverbank, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers and photographers who want to experience a less-crowded waterfall setting maintained by tribal stewards rather than a federal forest unit. Access to the falls is via a fairly short hike that rewards visitors with close-up views of the cascade and a chance to enjoy seasonal colors and birdlife along the stream. The site’s tribal management helps preserve its natural character, so plan for a rustic, outdoors-focused outing rather than developed amenities.
The Setting
Rainbow Falls sits at 1,053 feet within Menominee Reservation, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route is a mostly natural, unpaved footpath that winds through forested terrain and includes some uphill sections that account for the moderate rating. The trail leads to a viewing platform/overlook at the falls where hikers can linger for photos. Conditions and tips: footing can be uneven and the tread may become muddy or slippery after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended. The trail is suitable for most reasonably fit hikers; allow extra time for breaks and photography. There is no USFS trail number associated with this route (managed locally by TRIB/DESG).
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
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 allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rainbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is in the spring when water flow is at its peak, or in the fall when the surrounding foliage is vibrant with autumn colors.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 42°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery, and the water currents are strong. Stay on designated trails and viewing platforms.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Red River, 5.8 miles away, not on Rainbow Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
129 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 34 years of record
5.94 ft
Water depth at gauge
42°F
Very coldExpect 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 42 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge RED RIVER AT MORGAN ROAD NEAR MORGAN, WI (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
129 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
143 cfs
3/10Thu
Barely Flowing
140 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
131 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
136 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
129 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
131 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid June, 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 Neopit hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Rainbow Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Rainbow Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 53°F to 31°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 132 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Wisconsin.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Rainbow Falls is located near the town of Gurney, Wisconsin, in Iron County. Visitors can access the falls via a short drive from Highway 169. The trailhead is well-marked, and the falls are part of the Potato River Falls area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, which is free to use. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,053 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.974698° N, -88.794551° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wear sturdy shoes, especially if visiting after rain.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Antigo
Sleep Inn Antigo
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Antigo by IHG
Soak, Relax & Explore! Walk to Wolf River
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
BOULDER LAKE
13.7 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Boulder Lake Campground is located on the shores of Boulder Lake in northern Wisconsin. It is the forest's largest campground but campsites fill up fast. The campground is home to individual and group sites, making it an ideal location to relax with friends or family. Recreational opportunities abound. Recreation Boulder Lake provides ample opportunities for power boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming. Anglers might catch walleye, northern pike, bass or panfish. Ice fishing is also
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Potato River Falls, Copper Falls State Park, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore are nearby attractions worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot bald eagles and other birds of prey.
Cities near Rainbow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Rainbow Falls
31 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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