Rainbow Falls Historic Site: A Natural and Historic Gem
Discover Rainbow Falls Historic Site in Manitou Springs: a stunning waterfall, rich history, and natural beauty await!
Rainbow Falls Historic Site, near Manitou Springs, Colorado, features a picturesque waterfall cascading over ancient red rock formations. The site offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, including a bridge listed on the National Register of Historic Bridges.
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
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the rocks near the falls can be slippery.
- Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
- Reservations are encouraged for parking and the shuttle service.
Getting There
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Shuttle
To reach Rainbow Falls, park at the designated parking area off Highway 24 and Serpentine Drive, also known as “Higginbotham Flats,” in Manitou Springs. From there, a shuttle service operates continuously to the Falls entrance. The shuttle runs Friday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for parking and the shuttle is $20 per vehicle.
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Walking
While access to Rainbow Falls is free without a vehicle, walking or biking along Serpentine Drive is discouraged for safety reasons. If you choose to walk from Manitou Springs, be aware that there may not be sidewalks for the entire route, requiring you to walk on the road with traffic. Please exercise caution.
Discover more about Rainbow Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Williams Canyon
1.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Williams Canyon, a serene ravine in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Shoshone Spring
1.5 km
Explore the historical Shoshone Spring in Manitou Springs, a serene landmark that showcases the area's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Pikes Peak By Rail
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Colorado on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders.
Governor's House
1.8 km
Discover the historical allure of Governor's House in Manitou Springs, where rich history meets stunning Colorado landscapes.
Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum
1.9 km
Explore the captivating history of Manitou Springs at the Heritage Center and Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Glen Eyrie Castle
4.2 km
Experience the magic of Glen Eyrie Castle, a historic hotel in Colorado Springs offering breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor adventures.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
4.6 km
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Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
4.8 km
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Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
5.0 km
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City Hall of Old Colorado City
5.4 km
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The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery
6.1 km
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Magic Town at the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery
6.1 km
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Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center
6.1 km
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Old Colorado City, Colorado
6.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lantern Tour
0.5 km
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Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
0.6 km
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Adventures Out West Pikes Peak Ziplines
0.7 km
Experience the ultimate Colorado adventure with thrilling ziplines and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs. Family-friendly fun!
Miramont Castle Museum and The Queen's Parlour Tea Room
1.3 km
Discover Victorian elegance at Miramont Castle Museum in Manitou Springs, a unique architectural blend with historical exhibits and a charming tea room.
Stratton Spring
1.4 km
Discover Stratton Spring in Manitou Springs: A historic mineral spring at the crossroads of trails, trolley lines, and highways.
The Cliff House at Pikes Peak
1.4 km
Experience Victorian elegance at The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, a historic hotel in Manitou Springs offering luxury, fine dining, and stunning mountain views.
Manitou Springs Colorado
1.4 km
Discover Manitou Springs: A historic Colorado town with mineral springs, quirky charm, and stunning mountain views.
Cheyenne Spring
1.4 km
Quench your thirst with naturally carbonated mineral water at this historic spring in the heart of Manitou Springs.
Manitou springs
1.4 km
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Manitou Cliff Dwellings
1.4 km
Explore ancient Ancestral Puebloan architecture at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a unique cultural and historical experience near Colorado Springs.
Pikes peak
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Pikes Peak, a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers in Colorado.
Iron Spring
1.5 km
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Wheeler Town Clock - Manitou Springs
1.6 km
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Pike's Peak, Colorado
1.6 km
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The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
1.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Armadillo Ranch Bar, Restaurant, Live Music Venue
1.3 km
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The Loop
1.4 km
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Border Burger Bar
1.4 km
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Cliff House Dining Room
1.4 km
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The Keg Lounge
1.7 km
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Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant
1.7 km
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Manitou Brewing Company
1.7 km
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Swirl Restaurant and Wine Bar
1.7 km
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Adam’s Mountain Cafe
3.5 km
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Amanda's Cantina and Fonda
4.0 km
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Grand View
5.1 km
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Paravicini's Italian Bistro
5.6 km
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Ristorante Di Sopra
5.6 km
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Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap
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Alchemy
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Castle Gift Shop
1.2 km
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The Hemp Store
1.3 km
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Sante Fe Springs
1.4 km
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Eagle Dancer
1.4 km
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Osburn Gift Shop
1.4 km
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Leprechaun Shoppe
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Mountain High Gallery and Gifts
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Mountain West Trading USA
1.5 km
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La Tienda
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Ten Spot
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Kill Your Culture
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Manitou Outpost
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La Henna Boheme
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Legrande Accents Boutique
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Piramide-Dragonfly of Colorado
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kinfolks
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Red Mountain Bar and Grill
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Royal Tavern
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Townhouse Sports Grill
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Heroes Hollow
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The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room
5.1 km
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Trails End Taproom and Eatery
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Nova West
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Upstairs Wine Bar
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The Fifty-Niner
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OCC Brewing and Restaurant
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Pub Dog Colorado
6.4 km
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Colorado Mountain Brewery
6.7 km
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Mill Hill Saloon
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Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub
7.8 km
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