Rainbow Mountain has nine trails that total about 3.5 miles.
Covering only about 147 acres, the Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve is a relatively small hiking area, but it packs plenty of adventure into a modest space. Located in northeast Madison, the preserve includes nine trails that total about 3.5 miles. The diverse trails traverse high ridges and rocky slopes and descend to a stream basin with a burbling spring. With its wide variety of terrain, the preserve offers something for every kind of hiker. At the top of the mountain, a number of trails cross easy ground and lead to fascinating rock formations. Lower down, a series of challenging trails crawl up and down the rugged mountainside. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you’ll find a route that suits your desires.
A main attraction on Rainbow Mountain is Balance Rock. The fairly level Balance Rock Trail leads to a rock formation where erosion has created the optical illusion of a boulder precariously balanced on a smaller boulder. From this trail, you can easily reach the High Pass Trail, which traverses a ridge. Big boulders atop the ridge make for fun scrambling and provide the perfect perch to relax and enjoy inspiring views.
Hikers seeking a longer trek over demanding terrain should check out the Rainbow Loop Trail. This 1.5-mi. path tromps down boulder-strewn drainages and dives down to a stream basin, where a small spring-fed waterfall flows into a clear pool. From there, the path climbs back to the top of the ridge and passes Baby Balance Rock, where erosion has created another geological magic trick. From the Rainbow Loop Trail, you can also access several other paths to do a variety of loops and lengthen your trek.
While Rainbow Mountain draws plenty of hikers, the preserve is also a popular place to entertain kids. Near the parking lot there’s a playground and a pavilion with picnic tables.
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