Rainbow Falls is a 25-foot cascade on the Waterton River in Glacier National Park, Montana, in Glacier County, 1 mile by trail from the Goat Haunt Ranger Station. Goat Haunt is reached by boat from Waterton, Canada, so the short walk starts with a US border entry.
The falls
The drop is about 25 feet based on lidar data, with the river running down a series of cascades rather than falling free. Turbulent water rushes below lichen-covered rocks, with conifer forest behind.
Getting there
The trail starts at the Goat Haunt Ranger Station, mapped by the Park Service, and runs 1 mile each way with 172 feet of gain and 108 feet of loss. Goat Haunt has drinking water, restrooms and the ranger station.
In 2026 the Waterton Shoreline Cruise landed at Goat Haunt from June 3 to September 20, leaving Waterton Marina at 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. Hikers need two separate one-way tickets, 57 Canadian dollars per adult and 29 per child plus GST, sold in person, first come, first served, up to three days ahead. A passport is required to hike, and every visitor must report entry to US Customs and Border Protection through the CBP ROAM app, up to five hours before arrival. The 30-minute round-trip stop is exempt from reporting only for passengers who stay at the ranger station.
When to go
Goat Haunt boat landings run from early June to late September; later autumn cruises don't land. On summer weekends in 2026 the park ran a ranger-led Rainbow Falls hike, rated easy at 2 miles round trip, ending with a snack above the cascades.
On site
The trail passes a natural mineral lick where deer are often seen. Hikers should stay alert around water, steep dropoffs and wildlife along the route. Pets aren't allowed on Glacier's trails.
Nearby
Olson Creek Falls is about 0.4 mile away, and Street Creek Falls about 2.6 miles. Kaina Lake Falls is about 4.4 miles away.
Distances are straight-line.