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Rainbow Lake Vacation Rentals

Rainbow Lake, Arizona, United States
34.1515° N, -109.9812° W
Rainbow Lake
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Tucked at 6,760 feet in the White Mountains of Arizona, Rainbow Lake is a legacy of early Mormon settlers who dammed Walnut Creek in 1903. Located just outside Pinetop-Lakeside, the lake winds through a neighborhood mosaic, with much of its shoreline privately owned. Public access is maintained by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, with a northwest landing for fishing, kayaking, and birding. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, and stocked rainbow trout attract anglers throughout the year. A persistent challenge with invasive aquatic weeds led to the introduction of sterile white Amur carp by the Rainbow Lake Coalition, an effort designed to restore balance while protecting nearby ecosystems. Water levels vary depending on irrigation needs managed by the Pinetop-Woodland Lake Irrigation Company. While quiet and uncrowded, Rainbow Lake offers rich riparian views, waterfowl sightings, and the kind of tucked-away serenity Arizona’s high country is known for. Nearby, The House on the Hill Café in Lakeside is a cozy stop for a post-paddle breakfast.

Surface area (mi)
0.29
Max depth (ft)
14.11
Elevation (ft)
6709.32
Best time to go
Visit Rainbow Lake from late spring to early fall, when vibrant wildflowers bloom, and the crystal waters invite sun-soaked days of kayaking and fishing. Enjoy tranquil mornings and serene evenings, especially midweek, for fewer crowds and enchanting sunset reflections.
Water Quality
Rainbow Lake in Arizona exhibits a water color that is a blend of jade and aquamarine, reflecting its shallow depths and surrounding vegetation. The water clarity is often murky due to the presence of invasive aquatic weeds and fluctuating water levels, which can lead to sediment-rich conditions.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Nearby lakes

Where to stay

+ 4 bedrooms + 2
The Duke Cabin - A FOREST LAKES Cabin in the Woods! HOT TUB
Coconino County, Arizona, United States of America
$374 night

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Rainbow Lake Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Rainbow Lake. This is due to bacteria concerns and water quality issues that make the lake unsuitable for swimming, although it is still used for boating and fishing.

  • Rainbow Lake is a popular destination because of its fishing opportunities. In Arizona, it is stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and other fish species, making it attractive for anglers. The lake’s cool and refreshing weather during spring, summer, and early fall also adds to its appeal.

  • The daily bag limit for trout when fishing in Rainbow Lake, Arizona, is six trout. For unlicensed anglers under the age of 14, the limit is three trout. This applies to the specific regulations for Rainbow Lake.

  • There is no public beach at Rainbow Lake. The lake in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, has trails and a suspension bridge but no designated beach area. The Rainbow Lake in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, is open for fishing and boating but does not have a public beach either.

  • If you are referring to Rainbow Lakes Estates in Florida, the nearby towns include Ocala, Gainesville, Lady Lake, and Leesburg. These towns are all within a 66-mile radius of Rainbow Lakes Estates. For Rainbow Lake in Alberta, Canada, it is a remote town with no major towns immediately adjacent, given its northwest location.