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Colorado
Rainbow Lakes
15.3 mi
Distance
2,274 ft
Gain
No verdict for this trail
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
3 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
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Why you'll love it
Here's your day, mapped
Rainbow Lakes
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
Meals
Gear for the day
Elevation & route
- Distance
- 15.3 mi
- Elevation gain
- 2,274 ft
Photos
Directions & GPX
Permits & access
- Managing agency
- Forest Service
About this trail
Rainbow Lakes is a short loop trail in Colorado's White River National Forest, managed by the Blanco Ranger District. At 0.9 miles, this route is ideal for hikers seeking a quick outing or families with younger children. The trail provides access to multiple alpine lakes in a compact area, making efficient use of distance for those wanting to experience subalpine scenery without a lengthy commitment. The loop format allows hikers to explore different terrain and viewpoints along a single route, returning to the trailhead without retracing steps. Being situated within the White River National Forest, the trail likely passes through mixed conifer forests typical of Colorado's higher elevations and subalpine zones. This brief but scenic option works well as a standalone destination or as a supplementary hike when combined with nearby trails in the national forest. The White River National Forest offers extensive recreational opportunities across northwest Colorado, and Rainbow Lakes serves as an accessible entry point for visitors exploring the region.
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