Rainbow Lakes Trailhead

This TH accesses the Indian Peaks Wilderness, including a series of the nine connected Rainbow Lakes with frequent moose and beaver sightings. Access to Arapaho Glacier Trail, which leads eventually to the 4th of July TH. This area is over 10,000' and right under the Continental Divide, so a good high elevation training location.

Please view this document with everything you need to know about Indian Peaks Wilderness

Indian Peaks Wilderness Rules apply.  Organized groups like CMC are required to have a permit for both camping and day-hiking year round. Camping permits required for everyone for overnight trips between June 1 and September 15.  There is a campground at the TH with vault toilets.

The road to the trailhead is rough, and requires a 4WD high-clearance vehicle.  It is unplowed in winter but available for snowshoeing.

  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
Rainbow Lakes TH Nederland, CO 80466
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Rainbow Lakes TH to Rainbow Lakes Trail
  • Rainbow Lakes TH to Arapaho Glacier Trail
  • Rainbow Lakes TH to Old Baldy
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