Rainbow Falls: A Historic Cascade
Discover the beauty and history of Rainbow Falls, a unique Colorado waterfall near Manitou Springs.
Rainbow Falls, located near Manitou Springs, Colorado, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The falls cascade down Fountain Creek, dropping approximately 45 feet beneath a historic bridge that carries Highway 24. This bridge, constructed in 1932, is listed on the National Register of Historic Bridges, adding to the site's significance. Historically, Rainbow Falls held spiritual importance for the Ute Indians, who recognized it as a special place and named it for the rainbows that often appeared in its mist. Later, it served as a marker on the old Ute Trail and witnessed the passage of countless prospectors during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush in 1859. Today, Rainbow Falls is also known as "Graffiti Falls" due to the colorful, albeit illicit, art that adorns the canyon walls and the underside of the bridge. While the El Paso County Parks Department has made efforts to remove the graffiti, it persists, adding an unconventional layer to the site's character. Visitors can enjoy a short, easy hike to the falls along a gravel trail. The area offers picnic benches and tables, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the scenery. The cool waters and the surrounding landscape provide a tranquil escape. Note that access to the falls requires either a shuttle from a parking area off Highway 24 or walking/biking along Serpentine Drive.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning hours for a chance to see a rainbow cast across the waterfall.
- Be aware that parking is not available at the site. Use the designated parking area off Highway 24 and take the shuttle.
- Check the operating hours before you go, as Rainbow Falls is only open Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by Fountain Creek.
A brief summary to Rainbow Falls
- Serpentine Dr, Manitou Springs, West Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80829, US
- +1719-520-7529
- Visit website
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Rainbow Falls via public transportation from downtown Colorado Springs, take Mountain Metro Transit Route 3 to the Manitou Springs stop. Transfer to the free Manitou Springs Shuttle, which operates during the summer months. Take the shuttle towards the Manitou Springs area and get off at the stop closest to Serpentine Drive, from which it is a short walk to Rainbow Falls. Check the shuttle schedule in advance. Single fare for Mountain Metro Transit Route 3 is $1.75 [https://www.mountainmetro.com/fares/].
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Driving
If driving from Colorado Springs, take Highway 24 West. Take the exit toward Manitou Springs and merge onto Manitou Avenue. Continue for about 1.5 miles and turn right onto Serpentine Drive. Follow Serpentine Drive to the designated parking area at 101 Higginbotham Road. From the parking area, a shuttle will take you to the entrance of Rainbow Falls. Parking and shuttle fee is $20 per vehicle. Reservations are encouraged.
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Walking
If you are already in Manitou Springs, you can walk to Rainbow Falls from the downtown area. Head west on Manitou Avenue and turn right onto Serpentine Drive. Follow the road to Rainbow Falls. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes. Be aware that walking along Serpentine Drive is discouraged due to safety reasons.
