Rainbow Terrace Trail

The Rainbow Terrace Trail at Hot Springs State Park explores the spectacular travertine terrace formations created by centuries of mineral-rich spring water deposits. Similar in concept to the famous formations at Yellowstone's Mammoth Hot Springs, the Rainbow Terraces display an equally dazzling palette of mineral colors, with brilliant whites, oranges, yellows, and rust-reds decorating the staircase formations that cascade toward the Bighorn River.

The trail meanders past multiple terrace formations at various stages of development, from freshly deposited white calcium carbonate glistening in the sunlight to ancient oxidized terraces bearing deep amber tones. The constant flow of hot mineral water across the terraces creates a soft trickling sound that accompanies hikers throughout the route, while wisps of steam rise from the warmer pools and channels.

Interpretive panels along the Rainbow Terrace Trail explain how the mineral deposits accumulate over time and the role of temperature-dependent bacteria in creating the vivid coloration. The adjacent Bighorn River can be observed from several points along the trail, and the surrounding cottonwood corridor along the river attracts numerous songbirds during spring and fall migration. The trail connects seamlessly with the main boardwalk system, allowing visitors to combine both routes for a comprehensive exploration of this unique geothermal landscape.