Visit Multnomah Falls

Multnomah falls is a waterfall in Oregon located about 30 minutes east of Portland. The falls is 620 feet (189 m) tall, making it the highest waterfall in Oregon and the second highest year round waterfall in the United States. It is fed by underground springs from Larch Mountain. The flow over the falls changes, typically highest during the winter and spring. The falls is divided into two parts, an upper falls measuring 542 feet or 165 m, and a lower falls measuring 69 feet or 21 m. In terms of appearance, Multnomah Falls is grand, and beautiful. It is a must-see attraction in the Portland area.

Take I-84 eastbound for about 30 miles. Follow signs and take exit 31, which is an unusual left-side exit ramp. Exit 31 leads to a parking area near the falls. During the summer, finding a parking space can take a while. Expect to wait 15 minutes or longer. From the parking area follow the path, which goes under the highway, towards the falls. It takes about 5 minutes to reach the falls.

To get a closer look at the falls, stroll another several hundred feet up the paved trail leading to Benson Bridge. This bridge spans the lower falls. It is a perfect spot to take pictures of the magnificent upper falls, which is directly above the bridge, and also the more humble lower falls, which is directly below the bridge.

The trail continues from the Benson Bridge and goes all the way to the top of the upper falls. Once visitors have hiked up to the very top, they will be treated to spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge. They will also find a small cascade that is a bit upstream from the upper falls, which cannot be seen from the ground level. The trail from the information center up to the top of the falls is about 1.2 mile. After reaching the top of the falls, visitors can continue hiking six miles onward to the top of Larch Mountain or take the six mile Wahkeena Loop trail.

Visitors can stop by the Multnomah Falls Lodge, where they will find a gift shop, a restaurant, restrooms, and a US Forest Service Information Center. In the summer time, there are food carts that sell ice cream, coffee, sodas and other snacks in front of the lodge. Also in this area are tables and chairs available for visitors to use.

Multnomah Falls is open year round and best of all, it’s free! There are no parking or admission fees. Enjoy nature, the views, and fresh air while getting a good workout hiking up the trail. It’s the perfect outdoor activity!