Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is a spectacular 101-foot waterfall on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River near Mammoth Lakes, named for the vivid rainbows that appear in its mist when the midday sun is overhead. The waterfall plunges over a cliff of columnar basalt — the same volcanic formation found at nearby Devils Postpile National Monument — creating a wide, even curtain of water that catches the light beautifully. The pool at the base churns with whitewater, and on sunny days between 10 AM and 2 PM, one or more rainbows arc through the spray.

The most popular approach is a 2.5-mile one-way hike from the Devils Postpile trailhead, descending about 600 feet through pine forest along the river. A shorter 1.3-mile trail starts from the Reds Meadow parking area and descends 400 feet. Both trails end at an overlook above the falls, and a steep staircase of about 130 steps descends to the base for close-up views and the best rainbow photography. The trails are well-maintained and mostly moderate, with the return uphill being the only real workout.

The mandatory shuttle system operates mid-June through early September, and private vehicles are not allowed into the Reds Meadow Valley during this period. Plan your visit around the shuttle schedule. The falls are most impressive from June through August when snowmelt feeds them, and the rainbows are best seen between 10 AM and 2 PM on sunny days. At 7,600 feet elevation, even summer mornings can be chilly, so bring layers.