Idaho · Hiking · Near Idaho City

Rainbow Basin

8.9 mi
round trip
1,057 ft
climb
8,466 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Is Rainbow Basin open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Boise National Forest. It doesn't name Rainbow Basin, so check the source for the area it covers.

As of · Source: USFS · Boise National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Rainbow Basin is a hard hike in the Mountain Home Ranger District of Idaho's Boise National Forest, about 9 miles from the nearest town. The Forest Service manages the land, and the trail is an out-and-back that climbs from about 7,780 feet to about 8,466 feet, with a total gain of about 1,057 feet. The trail is natural-surfaced and allows bikes, so it works for hikers and riders alike. The route is long and steep, and the climb is one way, so plan for about 8.9 miles round trip. Big Trinity Lake and Green Island Lake are both within a mile, and Big Trinity Cabin and Big Roaring River Lake Campground sit close by for an overnight stay.

Around this trail

Add any of these when you start a trip
  • Sleep close

    Big Trinity Cabin

    Campground

    Campground · 0.8 mi from the trail
  • Eat after

    Kayak Pizza & Subs

    Restaurant

    On your way back · 25 mi
  • If it rains

    Vaughn Hot Spring

    Hot spring

    On your way back · 11 mi

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