8.5 miles
Distance
2,066 ft
Climb
-2,074 ft
Descent
2,190 ft
High Point
-8 ft
Altitude change
1,191 ft
Altitude min
1,261 ft
Altitude start
1,253 ft
Altitude end
-44.9%
Grade max
40.2%
Grade min
4 miles
Distance climb
4 miles
Distance down
991 ft
Distance flat

The Rainbow Loop Trail is an especially popular early season trail in the Stehekin Valley that features moderate elevation gain, wonderful early season wildflowers, and scenic views of the Stehekin Valley and the surrounding mountains. It is an excellent option for hikers who want to stretch their legs during late spring and early summer when most other trails of similar length are partially or completely snow covered.

The trail has both an "upper" and "lower" trailhead and is not a true loop. If you are relying on the Shuttle Bus, start at the upper trailhead.

A 6.8 mile (11 km) loop hike is possible by hiking the trail and then walking on the Stehekin Valley Road back to one's starting point.

source: North Cascades NP | Rainbow Loop
Detailed Description
Rainbow Loop Trail is a 9 mile moderately popular intermediate route located near Stehekin Washington. This hike only route and has a moderate overall physical rating. This route includes 2 trails. This route climbs 2,066 ft with a max elevation of 2,190 ft then descends -2,074 ft.
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Articles

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area: Rainbow Falls Loop
Sep 20, 2013 from backpacker.com
Travel by boat to a 7.2-mile loop in the North Cascades that features vibrant wildflowers, a rocky overlook above Lake Chelan, and a 300-foot...

Stats

  • Distance
    9 miles
  • Altitude min
    1,191 ft
  • Altitude start
    1,261 ft
  • Altitude end
    1,253 ft
  • Climb
    2,066 ft
  • Descent
    -2,074 ft
  • Grade max
    -44.9%
  • Grade min
    40.2%
  • Distance climb
    4 miles
  • Distance down
    4 miles
  • Distance flat
    991 ft

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Trails in Route

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Directions

  1. Walk southeast on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  2. Continue for 5 kilometers.
  3. Walk northeast on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  4. Continue for 1 kilometer.
  5. Walk southeast on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  6. Continue for 400 meters.
  7. Walk south on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  8. Continue for 60 meters.
  9. Walk north on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  10. Continue for 4 kilometers.
  11. Walk west on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  12. Continue for 30 meters.
  13. Walk north on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  14. Continue for 60 meters.
  15. Walk south on Rainbow Loop Trail.
  16. Continue for 800 meters.
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