Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is a waterfall on the Missouri River in Montana that drops about 50 feet in a wide sheet of water. The water falls in one continuous curtain across a broad span, creating a large water display.

The waterfall was observed and recorded in 1805 by Meriwether Lewis during a major exploration journey across the continent. Lewis documented what he saw as he traveled and mapped the river during his expedition.

The waterfall marks a place where early American explorers passed through and left their observations behind. Visitors today can stand where these journeys were documented and feel connected to that chapter of discovery.

The overlook on the cascade is reachable via Giant Springs Road and has parking and viewing areas for visitors. From here you can easily access nearby walking trails in the surrounding area.

A dam built in 1910 controls how water flows and keeps water falling visibly throughout the year across the cascades. This means the waterfall maintains its water display even during drier seasons.

Location: Montana

Part of: Missouri River

GPS coordinates: 47.53441,-111.20380

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:56