Multnomah Falls

Visiting Multnomah Falls along the Historic Columbia River Highway offers an unforgettable look at Oregon’s most iconic and visited natural landmark. Fed primarily by underground springs and snowmelt from Mount Hood via Multnomah Creek, this breathtaking cascade plunges a staggering total of 620 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in the state. The force is split into two distinct tiers: a dramatic 542-foot upper drop that plummets into a collection basin, followed immediately by a scenic 69-foot lower drop. Because the creek maintains a remarkably steady flow from its high-altitude springs, the waterfall remains an awe-inspiring, roaring spectacle all 12 months of the year.

The architectural centerpiece of the visitor complex is the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, a beautiful stone structure completed in 1925. Designed by noted Portland architect Albert E. Doyle, the lodge was constructed using native split fieldstone and basalt blocks to blend perfectly with the rugged cliffs. Today, the lodge acts as a premier hub for guest amenities, housing a full-service dining room with panoramic views, a cozy espresso bar, and a well-stocked gift shop filled with regional souvenirs. Additional amenities on the sprawling grounds include a dedicated U.S. Forest Service interpretive center, public restrooms, and a fast-casual outdoor snack bar serving local treats like fresh fudge and ice cream.

The site features a wealth of things to do that cater directly to different physical abilities and comfort levels, prioritizing a high degree of accessibility. The lower viewing platform, situated right outside the lodge gates, is completely paved and wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to take in the full, towering height of both tiers safely. For those looking for a bit more action, a short, paved 0.2-mile pathway climbs moderately up to a highly unique point of interest: the Benson Bridge. Built in 1914 by Italian stonemasons, this elegant concrete footbridge spans a chasm directly above the lower falls, placing visitors right in the path of the refreshing mountain mist. Ambitious hikers can push past the bridge, conquering a steep, 1-mile switchback trail to stand on a timber platform looking directly down over the lip of the falls.

To ensure a seamless modern visit, travelers should plan around the site's popularity and seasonal guidelines. Due to the high volume of visitor traffic, a seasonal timed-use parking permit system is active during the peak summer months for those parking in the central I-84 lot between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon allows guests to bypass the permit requirement and enjoy a much quieter atmosphere. Whether you are stopping for a quick photo from the accessible lower plaza, enjoying a warm meal inside the historic stone lodge, or hiking into the misty canyon, a stop at this majestic geological wonder remains a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.

Fun Facts

During winter, freezing temperatures can create spectacular curtains of ice around the cliffs while the waterfall continues to flow.

Attraction Advice

Multnomah Falls is accessible year-round, 24 hours per day. Night lighting illuminates the lower portion of the falls, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery after dark. Multnomah Falls offers many amenities along the Columbia River Gorge Route, including a visitor center, historic lodge, restaurant, gift shop, public restrooms, interpretive exhibits, and access to several hiking trails. A large parking lot is available across the street from the falls, but a parking permit is required during the summer months between 9 AM and 6 PM for a fee of $20. Parking outside of those hours is free. Pets are allowed on the grounds of the falls, but are not allowed in the lodge. Pets must be kept on a six-foot leash.