Rainbow Lake

Rainbow Lake
34.1515249° N, -109.981201° W
Rainbow Lake

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
The water color of the Columbia River in Multnomah County is often a murky brown during heavy rainfall due to runoff, but it typically returns to a moss green or foggy green hue. The water clarity is not crystal-clear, instead being cloudy or silty due to sediment and organic material. The natural scenery along the shoreline features the dramatic Columbia River Gorge, with lush vegetation and notable landmarks like Multnomah Falls, creating a scenic and diverse landscape.

Ideal for

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

Popular activities

  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Cross-country Skiing

Islands

Amidst the shimmering waters of a picturesque Arizona lake, two enchanting islands emerge as serene retreats for nature enthusiasts and explorers alike. These diminutive landmasses are steeped in the rich history of the region, once serving as sacred spots for Indigenous tribes. Surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant greenery, they offer captivating hiking trails that wind through fragrant sagebrush and wildflowers, leading to breathtaking lookouts that frame stunning sunsets over the water’s surface. Each island features hidden nooks perfect for photography, revealing the ever-changing moods of the lake and sky. A small wooden boathouse, a remnant of days gone by, invites visitors to imagine the tales of early settlers who found solace in this tranquil haven. For those seeking adventure, kayaking paddles to these shores promise a day of exploration, where recreational activities blend seamlessly with a touch of history, making the islands a must-visit gem in Arizona’s natural tapestry.

Nearby amenities

This picturesque location offers a variety of amenities to enhance your visit. For water enthusiasts, the Rainbow Lake Marina provides boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a public boat ramp for easy access to the water. Mooring buoys and a fuel dock ensure a seamless boating experience. If you prefer non-motorized activities, enjoy canoe and kayak rentals, or launch your own at the designated area.

Dining options abound with scenic lakefront restaurants like the Rainbow Lake Cafe, where you can savor meals with a view. For quick bites, check out the food trucks nearby or grab ice cream at Lakeside Scoops. Convenience stores and local grocery shops, such as Rainbow Market, cater to all your supply needs.

Camping enthusiasts can find a range of accommodations, including RV sites and cozy cabins at Rainbow Lake Lodges. For outdoor adventures, hiking trails lead to stunning lookout points, making it easy to explore the surrounding natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Rainbow Lake 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.