Do this early in the day before the sun is too high because the sun will fry you. 300' elevation gain on the return
Although not the best time (low water levels) it was still great cascade in a wonderful sylvan setting. Worth the hike.
We visited after Labor Day, which is off season and you can drive your own vehicle all the way down to the Devil's Postpile parking area. Was a great hike, especially given cool temperatures (35dF).
I have been to Rainbow Falls many time in the last 20 yrs. You can drive to the falls or hike from Devils Post Pile. This area which includes Red Meadow and Devils Postpile is only accessible once the snow melts, usually middle of June until Sept. Or the first snow fall.To prevent a lot of traffic you must take a bus unless you go before 7 or have a handicap placard. I've always driven and it's so much better.From the parking lot at Rainbow Falls it's about a 15-30 min hike depending on your speed. Once you get there climb down to see them from the base. You will see the 150ft drop and a rainbow that is formed by the light. Be careful the wet rock can be slippery.
A very nice walk through different environments, fall colors were nice, path well marked, falls were wonderful even though I went late in the day.
A cool and exciting 6 mile round trip walk through Devils Postpile National Monument and Ansel Adams Wilderness. The Fall colors with the fire devastation of fallen trees was such a contrast between beauty and death. Bring water, suntan lotion, and a healthy appetite of oneness with nature and you will not be disappointed.The Falls itself is so wonderful with gushing waters and a background of beautiful colors!Continue your walk down the make believe stairs and become one with the Falls.btw, walking on this journey you will imagine Alice chasing the White Rabbit down the hole... One pill makes you larger and one pill makes you small... Pass me another red vine please, yummy!
It's a bit of a hike to get to rainbow falls but it's worth it! We were there in September when there wasn't much water about but it still impressed us! It's amazing how the falls have eroded the rock over 100s of years!
Okay first bring water ten essentials and such. Sunglasses and a hat the sun is merciless at imes. The hke is a reverse hike down then up n the way back. The hike to the falls bottom is worth it but 160 feet straight down then the bad part ..up.The devils postpile is on the way.Bring extra botyles of water to give to the fools who forget. Go early the lot fills fast
Great trail we walked from the devil's postpile but you can access the trail further down the postpile road. Falls great and the dog loved the river. Nice hike for all.
A little hike but worth the visit. The falls are huge and has a great view from top as well as from front of the falls after getting down the stairs in front of the falls.