Rainbow Trail

Let the fresh alpine air fill your lungs along the Rainbow Trail. This circuit hike offers a diversity of views packed into a short trek! Perfect for a spontaneous outdoor escape or relaxing hike, this route is a crowd favorite. If you are seeking a more secluded adventure, then consider heading out in the morning to beat the crowds—and the heat! When trekking in the winter months, be sure to strap on a pair of snowshoes or microspikes. Note: this route is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Setting out from the Rainbow Trailhead off the visitor’s center parking lot, the Rainbow Trail can be followed in either direction; however, for the sake of this guide we chose to hike counterclockwise. Heading north from the trailhead, the Rainbow Trail wanders through a small forest, before opening up to the lush meadowlands. Hike past the Lake of the Sky Amphitheater and over to Taylor Creek, where you will meander along the banks of the babbling creek and over the boardwalk.

Continue along the route and you will soon be diverted east, weaving back across the meadowlands and beneath the tree shade. Eventually, you will be guided back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.