WaterfallNear Me

Lower Rainbow Falls

Madera County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height
Not recorded
Location
Madera County, California
Access status
Published monument trail with half-mile extension to Lower Falls; shuttle or entry fee
The walk
About 6 miles return (derived)
Ground & access
Sandy trail through burned forest with about 325 feet of change to Rainbow Falls, more on the descent to Lower Falls and back. Little shade.
Hikespeak: Rainbow Falls, Devils Postpile

From the trailhead beside the Devils Postpile ranger station, follow the trail past Devils Postpile to Rainbow Falls and its two overlooks. Continue on the trail half a mile downstream along the Middle Fork San Joaquin River to Lower Falls. Return the same way. Lower Falls is below Rainbow Falls; do not confuse the two.

Plan your visit

Devils Postpile ranger station trailhead to Rainbow Falls, then the trail downstream to Lower Falls

Hikespeak gives 5.1 miles round trip to the Rainbow Falls overlooks and says another trail continues half a mile downstream to Lower Falls. Derived: about 6.1 miles return. A shorter approach from Rainbow Falls Trailhead (shuttle stop 9) joins 0.45 mile before Rainbow Falls.

Sandy trail through burned forest with about 325 feet of change to Rainbow Falls, more on the descent to Lower Falls and back. Little shade.

Where to start

Hikespeak says day visitors should park at the Mammoth Mountain ski area and take the shuttle (fees apply). Those allowed to drive pay a per-vehicle fee at Minaret Vista Entrance Station and park in the loop at the end of the road. Check current shuttle rules.

Timing & water

Summer to early fall while Reds Meadow Road is open.

Before you go

Shuttle or vehicle fee applies per the source; current amounts and shuttle requirements not confirmed here.

Visitor information
Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore California

Waterfall location

Madera County, California.

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