Hike Around Oregon’s Most Beautiful Waterfall: Multnomah Falls

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Multnomah Falls

Lush green forests and basalt cliffs surround this Iconic waterfall. It’s particularly lovely in spring when snowmelt and rain create a powerful flow, although it’s impressive year-round.

Multnomah Falls holds cultural and historical significance for the region’s Native American tribes, including the Multnomah people, for whom the falls are named. The area surrounding the falls has been a site of human activity for thousands of years.

It is one of the most beautiful places in Oregon, and I recommend visiting the waterfall during your next visit.

How Tall Is The Waterfall?

The waterfalls plunges in two significant steps, with an upper fall of 542 feet or 165 meters and a lower fall of 69 feet or 21 meters, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States.

Multnomah Falls Hike

The 2.3-mile trail starts at the large parking area along Columbia River Highway. After parking, the iconic photograph of the waterfall is right there when you park. You can take a look at mine here.

Multnomah Falls in Oregon
Multnomah Falls Oregon

The bridge that crosses in front of the waterfall is just a few minute’s worth of scrambling after the entrance.

The remainder of the hike involves an 831-foot elevation gain to the top, which offers a small platform vantage point. Be careful when hiking on the bridge, as a few hikers have died over the years after falling.

It is a breathtaking hike, and you can hear the waterfall cascading the entire time. Make sure to visit the Visitors Center on the way out.

The Lodge and Visitor Center

The historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, built in 1925, is at the base of the falls. It offers dining, a gift shop, and visitor information.

Multnomah Falls Lodge
Multnomah Falls Lodge: Credit

They also serve tasty treats, hot chocolate, and so much more.

What Time Can I Visit Multnomah Falls?

You can visit the area from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m

Do I Need A Permit To Visit?

Timed Use Permits will be required from May 24 through September 2, 2024. Permits are per vehicle, not per person.

The cost is $2.00 per ticket, and it is nonrefundable.

You can purchase them directly on the reservation website.

Where Is Multnomah Falls?

Situated along the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge, it is approximately 30 miles or 48 kilometers east of Portland, Oregon.

After you visit Multnomah Falls, visit Kachka, a delicious restaurant in downtown Portland.

Where Do You Want To Travel Next?