
Multnomah Falls
Oregon's tallest waterfall, a majestic two-tiered cascade offering stunning views and accessible trails in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Multnomah Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oregon's tallest waterfall, a majestic two-tiered cascade offering stunning views and accessible trails in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
"Absolutely stunning and a true Oregon treasure! The two-tiered waterfall cascading down the cliffs is breathtaking."

🎟️ Book Timed Entry Early
Peak season requires timed entry permits. Book online via Recreation.gov well in advance to guarantee your visit!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is extremely limited. Aim to arrive before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Benson Bridge
Mid-level viewing platform
Walk across this historic stone bridge for a classic, postcard-perfect view of the majestic cascade.

Upper Falls Viewpoint
Top of the paved trail
Hike the paved trail to the top for a different perspective and stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Multnomah Falls Lodge
Base of the falls
Enjoy a meal or browse the gift shop at this historic lodge, offering amenities and a cozy atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Timed Entry & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Multnomah falls tips?
🎟️ Book Timed Entry Early
Peak season requires timed entry permits. Book online via Recreation.gov well in advance to guarantee your visit!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is extremely limited. Aim to arrive before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
Any tips when I go to multnomah falls?
Confused by Multnomah Falls tickets / reservations
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail to Benson Bridge is easy, but hiking to the top is steep. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Prepare for Mist
The spray from the falls can be significant, especially near Benson Bridge. Bring a light rain jacket or poncho. :umbrella:
Visiting Multnomah Falls (and Wahkeena) 2025
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Timed Entry Early
Peak season requires timed entry permits. Book online via Recreation.gov well in advance to guarantee your visit!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is extremely limited. Aim to arrive before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail to Benson Bridge is easy, but hiking to the top is steep. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Prepare for Mist
The spray from the falls can be significant, especially near Benson Bridge. Bring a light rain jacket or poncho. :umbrella:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty in the Gorge. Download maps of the area before you go. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Multnomah Falls for its breathtaking beauty and iconic status, calling it a 'true Oregon treasure' and 'spectacular.' The accessibility to the Benson Bridge is a highlight, though many note the significant crowds. The hike to the top is recommended for its rewarding views, despite its steepness. Some find parking challenging and suggest arriving very early.
"The view is spectacular; this waterfall is truly worth visiting. You have to climb up to the point where the waterfall begins, and from there you can continue along the trail and see more waterfalls. Be prepared for a long walk, but the trail is very well marked and maintained."
Mario Sanchez
"Multnomah Falls is absolutely stunning and a true Oregon treasure! The two-tiered waterfall cascading down the cliffs is breathtaking in every season. The short walk to the viewing area is easy and accessible, and if you’re up for more adventure, the hike up to the Benson Bridge or all the way to the top offers incredible views. The mist, the roar of the water, and the surrounding greenery make it feel like something out of a fairy tale. It can get crowded, but it’s 100% worth the visit — one of the most iconic and unforgettable stops in the Pacific Northwest!"
Prashanth Vijender (Juggernaut)
"It was SOOO BEAUTIFUL!! Definitely worth the trip out! The waterfall is visible as soon as you get there! The fall was beautiful and the hike was great! There are beautiful viewpoint all along the hike!
Definitely a steep hike but it’s freeing to make it to the top! Come check out the waterfall and hike, it’s definitely worth it!"
Isabella Scales
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Multnomah Falls is about a 30-40 minute drive east of Portland, Oregon, via I-84 E. Take exit 31 for Multnomah Falls. Parking is limited and often requires a timed entry permit during peak season. Some visitors opt for tours from Portland for convenience.
During the summer season, the Columbia Gorge Express bus offers service from Portland to Multnomah Falls, providing a convenient alternative to driving and parking. Check their schedule for operating days and times. :bus:
Yes, you can drive directly to Multnomah Falls via I-84 E. However, parking is very limited and often requires a timed entry permit, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive very early or consider alternative transport.
For a stress-free visit, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and secure parking. Alternatively, the Columbia Gorge Express bus is a great option. Driving yourself requires careful planning regarding timed entry and parking.
Yes, Multnomah Falls is accessible by car via Interstate 84 East. However, access to the parking lot and immediate area may be restricted during peak times, requiring a timed entry permit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, during peak season (typically May through September), a timed entry permit is required to access the Multnomah Falls area. These can be booked online through Recreation.gov. Check the official website for current requirements. :ticket:
Entry to Multnomah Falls itself is free. However, a timed entry permit may be required during peak season, which has a small reservation fee. Parking fees may also apply depending on the lot. :moneybag:
Timed entry permits for Multnomah Falls are typically purchased online through Recreation.gov. It's crucial to book these in advance, as they often sell out. :computer:
Multnomah Falls is generally open year-round, but access to the viewing areas and trails can be affected by weather conditions. The visitor center and lodge have specific operating hours. Always check the Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information. :clock:
During peak season, a timed entry permit is usually required to access the Multnomah Falls area. Visiting outside of these times or on weekdays might offer more flexibility, but it's best to confirm current regulations on Recreation.gov.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning waterfall from the viewing platform, walk across the historic Benson Bridge, hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views, and visit the Multnomah Falls Lodge for amenities and souvenirs. :camera:
The paved trail to the top is about one mile round trip and is quite steep with switchbacks. While manageable for most, it's considered a moderate hike. The views from the top are well worth the effort. :hiking_boot:
Yes, the Columbia River Gorge is home to numerous other beautiful waterfalls, including Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Wahkeena Falls, many of which are accessible via scenic drives and short hikes. :waterfall:
The paved path to the Benson Bridge viewing area is generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, the trail to the top of the falls is steep and not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. :wheelchair:
The Multnomah Falls Lodge offers restrooms, a gift shop, and a restaurant. There are also picnic areas and interpretive displays near the visitor center. :restroom:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge features a restaurant offering meals with a view of the falls. It's a popular spot, so expect potential wait times, especially during peak hours. :restaurant:
The lodge restaurant typically serves American cuisine, including sandwiches, salads, and entrees. It's a convenient option for a meal while visiting the falls. :forkandknife:
Yes, there are picnic areas available near the Multnomah Falls Lodge and visitor center, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty. :picnic_table:
You are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it at the designated picnic areas. This can be a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery. :sandwich:
Besides the lodge restaurant, dining options are limited directly at the falls. You'll find more choices in nearby towns like Corbett or Cascade Locks, or back in Portland. :map:
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and reducing crowds. Golden hour can create magical shots. :sunrise:
The classic view from the base, the perspective from Benson Bridge, and the overlook from the top of the paved trail all offer unique and stunning photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is generally prohibited in National Forests, including the area around Multnomah Falls, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
For capturing the waterfall's motion, use a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/15 to 1 second) with a tripod to avoid blur. For the surrounding landscape, a mid-range aperture (f/8-f/11) works well. :camerawithflash:
It's challenging during peak times. Visiting on a weekday morning, especially outside of summer, significantly increases your chances of getting a less crowded shot. Patience is key! :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children or those seeking more adventure, the hike to the top of the falls offers a rewarding challenge. It's a great way to burn off energy and enjoy incredible views. Consider visiting on a weekday to minimize crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The visitor center also provides educational insights into the area's natural history. :child:
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be sure to check trail conditions with the US Forest Service before heading out, as some paths can be affected by weather or maintenance. Carrying plenty of water, wearing sturdy hiking boots, and being aware of your surroundings are crucial for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in this beautiful natural area. :hiking_boot:
📸 Photographers
To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The soft light of golden hour can create truly magical images. Be prepared for mist, which can add a dramatic effect but also requires lens protection. Remember that drone photography is generally prohibited in this area. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Columbia River Gorge
When visiting the Gorge, be prepared for varying weather conditions. The area can experience rain and fog, which add to its mystical charm but can also impact visibility and trail conditions. Always check the weather forecast before you go. The US Forest Service manages much of the Gorge, and their website is an invaluable resource for trail conditions, closures, and safety information. Remember that cell service can be unreliable, so downloading offline maps is highly recommended.
For those interested in the natural history, the Gorge is a testament to geological forces. The basalt cliffs are remnants of ancient volcanic activity, and the immense power of the Columbia River has shaped the landscape over millennia. The diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The sheer scale and beauty of the Gorge make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Oregon.
The Multnomah Falls Experience: Beyond the View
For the more adventurous, the hike to the top of the falls is a rewarding experience. The paved, switchbacking trail is about a mile long and offers increasingly spectacular views as you ascend. Reaching the top provides a different perspective of the waterfall and a sweeping panorama of the Columbia River Gorge. This hike is considered moderately strenuous due to its incline, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Beyond the main trail, further hiking opportunities exist, connecting to other trails within the Columbia River Gorge. These can lead to more secluded viewpoints or other natural attractions. Always be prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate gear if you plan to venture beyond the immediate vicinity of the falls. The US Forest Service provides maps and information on these longer trails.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit