Multnomah Falls

The basics

The most popular Multnomah Falls tours are half-day and full-day outings from Portland. In addition to time at the falls, half-day tours often also include visits to the Columbia River Gorge, the Vista House at Crown Point, or other falls in the area. Full-day tours might stop at Mt. Hood for spectacular views over the beauty of northwestern Oregon or at area wineries for afternoon tastings.

Things to know before you go

• Parts of the path that lead to the lower waterfall are wheelchair accessible; there is an elevator to the restaurant.

• A US Forest Service information center is open seven days a week.

• The out-and-back hike to the upper falls overlook is 2.4 miles (4 kilometers) total.

• The Multnomah Falls Lodge at the base of the falls hosts a restaurant, snack bar, gift shop, and restrooms. Pick up hiking trail maps here.

• Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring layers, whether you plan to hike or not; spray and mist can make surfaces slippery and cooler than nearby areas.

• Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

How to get there

The falls are along the Oregon side of the Columbia River about 30-40 minutes from downtown Portland. From Portland, head east on Interstate 84 and take exit 31 to the parking lot (which fills up often). For a more scenic route, take exit 28 and drive the Historic Columbia River Highway. To avoid traffic and navigation issues, take a guided bus tour from Portland.

When to get there

Multnomah Falls is open year-round, with the most impressive water flow in winter and spring. To avoid large crowds, go early in the morning, midweek, or on rainy days. Know that on warm days in spring, summer, and fall, there will be crowds.

Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

While Multnomah Falls is definitely the grand dame, it’s not the only waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area or along the Historic Columbia River Highway. On the drive between Portland and the gorge, stop off at Wahkeena Falls, Latourell Falls, Horsetail Falls, or Bridal Veil Falls for more opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Select day tours to Multnomah Falls also stop at additional waterfalls on the route.

Do you need a ticket for Multnomah Falls?

No, you don’t need tickets to visit Multnomah Falls. However, if you’re visiting during the peak season—which lasts from May through early September—and are driving your own vehicle there, you’ll need to pre-buy a timed entry permit, which is available up to 14 days in advance.

Is there an entrance fee for Multnomah Falls?

No, there’s no admission fee for Multnomah Falls or the trails surrounding it. You’ll need a timed-entry vehicle permit during high season, which runs from late May until the beginning of September, but If you visit as part of a tour or come by bus or shuttle, you won’t need to pay anything extra.

How do I make reservations for Multnomah Falls?

You can reserve a timed use permit for Multnomah Falls on recreation.gov up to 14 days in advance. There are two permit types: One is just for Multnomah Falls, while the other covers both Multnomah Falls and the surrounding Waterfall Corridor, which extends along Highway 30 from Bridal Veil Falls to Ainsworth State Park.

How much time do you need at Multnomah Falls?

You can stop at Multnomah Falls for as little as 10 minutes, but most people spend up to an hour there, to visit the lodge and walk over the footbridge. You can also hike to the top of the falls, which takes around 90 minutes to complete the loop.

What is the best time to go to Multnomah Falls?

The best time to visit Multnomah Falls is in the springtime, when water levels are at their highest and the surge is most powerful. Summer is also popular, as the weather in the Columbia Gorge is usually pleasant, but water levels are lower and there are generally more crowds.

Where can I park if Multnomah Falls parking is full?

If the Multnomah Falls parking lots are full—which they often are—you’ll need to either wait for a space to become available or take a hop-on, hop-off shuttle. As Multnomah Falls has limited parking facilities, you might want to consider leaving your car at home and taking a tour.

Ways to explore

Multnomah Falls is one of a string of waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge—whether you’re just stopping off the highway to admire the viewpoint, or you’re planning a full day hike, there are plenty of ways to explore. Bike tours of the area are also popular options, and typically include stops at other waterfalls along the way. If you’re visiting during the summer high season and you’re not on a tour, be sure to book your timed entry permit in advance, as you’ll need it in order to park.

Accessibility

The lower level has an accessible washroom, accessible parking, and a paved path to the lower viewing platform. An elevator is available to reach the upper-level viewing station.

Age limits

There are no age limits; however, children should be supervised when walking on the slippery paths.

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, cash, credit card

What to wear

Closed-toe shoes with good grip, comfortable outdoor clothes, warm layers

Not allowed

Littering, feeding wildlife

Amenities

Lodge, parking, gift shop, bathrooms, restaurant, interpretive center

Address

Just off the Historic Columbia River Highway, Multnomah Falls is about a 40-minute drive from Portland. Driving is the easiest way to get there, but travelers can also book a shuttle or guided tour that includes transportation.

Driving

From Portland, drive I-84 East highway to Bridal Veil, then take Exit 28 to continue along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Follow the signs to the parking lot. In the high season, arrive early: The parking lot fills up fast.

Public transportation

The Columbia Gorge Express Shuttle runs from Portland’s Gateway Transit Center to Multnomah Falls. Shuttles run daily, departing about every 1.5–3 hours from early morning to early evening. To ensure a seat, especially during the high season, book ahead.

Best times to visit

Outside of the high season, when you need to book in advance, arrive before 9am or after 5pm if you’re driving—otherwise, it might be hard to find parking.

Best days to visit

If you want to avoid the crowds, try to plan your visit for a weekday.

Best months to visit

Spring (April to early May) and fall (late September through October) tend to be quieter and bring gorgeous colors to the area.