Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.4 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
677 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike is an excellent adventure in the Boise National Forest that explores a swathe of wilderness occupied by several charming lakes, dense forests, granite gardens, and open meadows. While this route is scenic, it’ll get your heart rate up!

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Route Description for Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike

The Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike is one of the beautiful trails in the Boise National Forest that beckons the exploration of intermediate hikers and families with older children. Explore lush meadows, stands of fir and pines, and areas of burn before revealing the beauty of the lakes shaded by looming granite bluffs. As this route is mostly exposed, it is wise to wear SPF and pack plenty of water. Note the path is not well marked, so use the trail GPS for easy navigation.

Setting out from the trailhead at the Big Trinity Lake, the Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike follows the southbound trail into the wilderness. Alternating through meadowlands and tree stands, you will be granted impressive views of the surrounding mountains. After some hiking, the path will descend into the mountain basin, passing Green Island Lake before beginning the final push up to the Rainbow Lakes.

Mind your footing on the rocky and steep terrain, using the trail GPS to navigate the primitive route.

After some hiking, the path will reach Rainbow Basin. Revel in the beauty of the collection of mountain lakes and the scene of the looming ridges anchored by Trinity Mountain. Relax along the shoreline, then when you are ready, head back the way you came to the trailhead.

Getting to the Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike Trailhead

The Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike departs from the trailhead off Forest Route 129E

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike Elevation Graph

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Rainbow Lakes via Big Trinity Lake Hike Reviews

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