Who hasn't always wanted to find just the perfect swimming hole? The one all the locals know about but seems to always escape the casual passerby. We have one for you conveniently located just off Highway 120 on the way to Yosemite National Park!

Rainbow Pools are natural swimming holes along the south fork of the Tuolumne River, where one can dip their feet, take a plunge or just watch courageous kids jump the rock lined ledges into the largest of the inviting pools. Originally a Toll Stop on the Big Oak Flat Road to Yosemite, and later a resort development, the area is now a popular picnic, swimming, hiking and fishing spot.

Rainbow Pools is located 15 miles East of Groveland. Just after you pass the View Point parking area called Rim of the World, which looks down onto the Tuolumne River canyon, watch for a turn on the right just before the big bridge. If you miss the right, just after the bridge is the turnoff to Cherry Lake, you can turn around there.

Swimming, Fishing, Hiking, Picnicking, FUN!

The area is accessible all year round. If the gate for the road down to the parking area is closed, you can park on the road and walk in. Swimming is best in summer, July through September, but fishing and hiking is good all year long.

Fees: No Access Fee