About Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls earns its name at midday when the mist from its 101-foot plunge catches the California sun and creates a vivid, reliable rainbow in the spray below. The falls drop over an ancient lava plug on the Middle Fork San Joaquin River in Devils Postpile National Monument, one of the most geologically remarkable areas in the Sierra Nevada. The basalt columns of the Postpile and the roaring falls combine for a spectacular half-day adventure.

The trail to Rainbow Falls follows the Middle Fork San Joaquin River downstream from Devils Postpile, passing through a forest of lodgepole pine and red fir at over 7,000 feet elevation. The high elevation keeps temperatures comfortable even in peak summer — a welcome change from the searing Central Valley heat just hours away on the other side of the Sierra.

Trail Highlights

• 101-foot plunge over an ancient lava plug — vivid midday rainbows in the mist
• Located in the extraordinary Devils Postpile National Monument
• High Sierra setting above 7,000 feet keeps temperatures comfortable in summer
• The famous basalt column formation of the Postpile is visible from the same trail
• Named for the rainbow that reliably appears in the afternoon mist

Trail Description

From the Devils Postpile shuttle stop (mandatory in summer), follow the trail to the Postpile for the basalt column views, then continue downstream on the River Trail toward Rainbow Falls. The path follows the Middle Fork San Joaquin through lodgepole pine forest.

The falls arrive after 2.5 miles — a dramatic 101-foot drop into a pool ringed with volcanic rock. Visit around noon for the rainbow effect. The upper overlook and the lower riverside viewpoint both offer excellent perspectives. Return via the same trail.

Tips & What to Bring

• A mandatory shuttle operates from Mammoth Mountain in summer (late June - early September)
• Visit between 11am-2pm for rainbow sightings in the mist
• Bring sunscreen — the high elevation amplifies UV radiation significantly
• Combine Devils Postpile columns with Rainbow Falls for a full monument day
• Mammoth Lakes (15 minutes away) has excellent dining and lodging options

Getting There

From Mammoth Lakes, CA, take CA-203 West to Minaret Road. In summer, take the mandatory shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain Inn area to the Devils Postpile trailhead. GPS: 37.6283, -119.0883.