Rainbow Falls is a 101-foot waterfall in Devils Postpile National Monument, near Mammoth Lakes. The San Joaquin River drops over a ledge, and sunlight through the spray can form rainbows, clearest around midday. A hiking trail leads to overlooks and down steep stairs to the base, where you can feel the mist. You can also visit the Devils Postpile basalt columns on the same outing. The trail has exposed, hot sections, so bring water and sun protection, especially in summer.
The waterfall and its rainbows
The San Joaquin River drops about 101 feet over a ledge at Rainbow Falls. Spray from the cascade catches the sunlight and can form the rainbows that give the waterfall its name. Midday is the clearest time to look for them, when the sun reaches the water at a favourable angle.
The falls are part of Devils Postpile National Monument, a protected area that also includes the Devils Postpile basalt columns. The columns were formed by volcanic forces around 100,000 years ago and rise more than 60 feet. Visiting both sights makes for a longer walk than going to the falls alone.
Walking to the falls
The trail passes through forest and open, sunny stretches, with wildflowers along the route. Distances depend on where you start and whether you include Devils Postpile: the walk from the shuttle stop to the falls is given as about 1.3 miles one way, while combining the Postpile and falls makes the outing longer. Expect uneven ground in places.
Overlooks give you views of the waterfall from above. Stairs lead down toward its base, where the spray offers a cool break. Take care on the steep steps. Bring water and sun protection, since some stretches provide little shade and the trail can become hot.
Getting to the trail
Summer access can involve a shuttle from Mammoth Main Lodge because driving is restricted during part of the day. The shuttle journey can include a wait of 30 to 45 minutes each way, so allow extra time. Parking near the area can also fill early; one account found the lot nearly full at about 8 a.m.
Check the current access arrangements before travelling, and plan your water and sun protection around the exposed sections of trail. If you want to see the rainbows, time your walk to reach the falls around midday.
Perguntas frequentes
When is the best time to see rainbows at Rainbow Falls?
Around midday, when sunlight hits the waterfall’s spray and the rainbows are clearest.
How tall is Rainbow Falls?
The waterfall is about 101 feet high.
Can you walk down to the bottom of Rainbow Falls?
Yes. Stairs lead down toward the base, but they are steep, so take care.
Do you need to take a shuttle to Rainbow Falls?
Summer driving restrictions can mean taking a shuttle from Mammoth Main Lodge. Check current access arrangements before your visit.
