Multnomah Falls: How to Visit Oregon’s Most Famous Waterfall
With its dramatic two-tier drop, misty air, and lush forest backdrop, Multnomah Falls is the most famous waterfall in Oregon — and one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. Located just 30 miles east of Portland along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway, it’s an easy and rewarding stop on any Oregon road trip. In this guide, we share everything you need to know before visiting: how to get there, when to go, parking and permit updates for 2026, and the best viewpoints for soaking in the beauty of this 620-foot cascade. Whether you’re stopping for a quick photo or planning a full day exploring the Columbia River Gorge, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to Multnomah Falls.
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Visiting Multnomah Falls – Our Experiences
If you’re planning an Oregon road trip, visiting Multnomah Falls is an absolute must. Chris and I have seen it several times over the years, and it remains one of the most spectacular stops along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway.
During our first visit, Multnomah Falls wasn’t as crowded or regulated as it is today. You could simply pull off the road, walk up to the viewpoint, and enjoy the waterfall without any timed use entry. It felt peaceful — just the sound of rushing water, the cool mist on your face, and the green canyon walls all around.
Things have changed since then. The falls have become one of Oregon’s most visited landmarks, and the permit system now helps manage the crowds. Still, the experience is just as powerful. Whether you’re exploring the Gorge for days or just spending a short weekend in Portland, make time to stop here — it’s one of those unforgettable Oregon moments that belong on every traveler’s list.
About Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest and most famous waterfall — and one of the most photographed landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. With a total drop of 620 feet (189 meters) over two tiers, it’s a dramatic sight any time of year. The falls plunge from the basalt cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, creating a misty, dreamlike scene surrounded by moss-covered rocks and evergreen forest.
The upper cascade drops 542 feet, and the lower one adds another 69 feet, divided by the graceful Benson Bridge, a pedestrian walkway built in 1914. From the bridge, you can feel the spray of the water and enjoy one of the most iconic views in Oregon.
According to Native American legend, the waterfall formed when a young Multnomah woman sacrificed herself to the Great Spirit to save her people from illness — and water began to flow where she fell.
Today, Multnomah Falls is not only a natural wonder but also one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in the state. It’s located just 30 miles east of Portland, making it an ideal half-day trip or a highlight of a longer Oregon road adventure through the Columbia River Gorge.
If you’re exploring more of the state, our Oregon guide includes the best places, routes, and travel tips.
How to Get to Multnomah Falls
Reaching Multnomah Falls is easy, which is part of why it’s such a popular stop on Oregon road trips. The falls are located along the Historic Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84, about 30 miles east of Portland — less than a 40-minute drive.
If you’re driving from Portland, take I-84 eastbound to Exit 31. This exit leads directly to the main parking area, located between the highway lanes. From there, a short pedestrian tunnel takes you straight to the viewing area at the base of the falls.
For a more scenic route, take Exit 28 (Bridal Veil) instead, and follow the Historic Columbia River Highway. This road winds past several other waterfalls — including Latourell and Wahkeena — and offers incredible viewpoints along the Gorge. It takes a bit longer, but it’s one of Oregon’s most beautiful drives and a must if you enjoy scenic byways.
If you’re coming from farther away:
- From Eugene: 139 miles (about 2 hours 15 minutes) via I-5 N and I-84 E.
- From Bend: 165 miles (about 3 hours) via US-26 W and OR-35 N.
- From Seattle: 195 miles (about 3 hours 15 minutes) via I-5 S and I-84 E.
Parking, Shuttle & Permits (2026 Updates)
Multnomah Falls attracts more than two million visitors a year, so planning ahead is key — especially during summer. The main parking lot is located in the center of Interstate 84 at Exit 31, with a short pedestrian tunnel leading directly to the falls. It’s free to park here, but spaces fill up early in the day, often by mid-morning on weekends.
To reduce congestion, the Timed Use Permit System—introduced in 2022—continues in 2026. From late May through early September, visitors need a Timed Use Permit to access Multnomah Falls between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Each permit costs $2 per vehicle and must be reserved in advance at Recreation.gov. The system helps limit crowds, especially at the base viewing area and the Benson Bridge.
If you don’t have a permit, or simply prefer to skip the parking hassle, consider taking the Columbia Gorge Express shuttle, which runs between Portland, Cascade Locks, and Multnomah Falls. It’s an easy and eco-friendly way to visit, with several departures daily during the high season.
There’s also limited roadside parking along the Historic Columbia River Highway, but it’s often restricted and strictly enforced — so always check signs before stopping.
Our advice? Arrive before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to avoid the heaviest crowds and parking stress. Early mornings also offer the best light for photography and a more peaceful experience.
Best Time to Visit Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is stunning year-round, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons — from roaring spring runoff to icy winter cascades.
The best time to visit is from late spring through early fall, when the trails, viewpoints, and facilities are fully open. The waterfall flows year-round, but peak flow happens in March through May, when snowmelt and rainfall feed the Columbia River Gorge. This is when the falls are at their most powerful.
Summer (June through August) brings lush greenery and warm weather, but also the biggest crowds. Arriving early — ideally before 8 a.m. — makes a huge difference, especially if you want to enjoy the base area or hike to Benson Bridge without hundreds of visitors.
Autumn (September through October) is one of our favorite times to visit. The fall colors in the Gorge make every photo pop, and the crowds are smaller. You’ll still have access to the scenic drive and nearby waterfalls.
Winter (November through February) is the quietest season. Some facilities close, and trails can be icy, but the sight of Multnomah Falls partially frozen is breathtaking. If you visit in winter, check road and weather conditions before you go.
Quick tip: The best time to fully enjoy all activities in the Columbia River Gorge is from early July through mid-October, when the roads, viewpoints, and nearby attractions are fully open.
Best Viewpoints & Walks
One of the best things about Multnomah Falls is how easy it is to enjoy — you can see its full beauty within minutes of parking, or spend a few hours exploring the trails for different perspectives.
Base Viewing Area
The main viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking lot. From here, you’ll see the full 620-foot cascade framed by moss-covered cliffs. This spot offers the classic postcard view — perfect for first-time visitors or anyone on a tight schedule.
Benson Bridge
A short, steep paved trail (about 0.2 miles one way) takes you to the Benson Bridge, which crosses between the two tiers of the falls. It’s the most photographed spot and offers a dramatic view from the middle of the cascade. Expect to get misted — it’s part of the experience!
Top of the Falls Trail
If you’re up for more hiking, continue past the bridge on a 1.1-mile uphill trail to the top of Multnomah Falls. The climb is steep with switchbacks, but the view of the Columbia River Gorge from above is absolutely worth it. Good shoes and water are essential, especially in summer.
Wahkeena Falls Loop
For a longer adventure, connect the Multnomah Falls Trail with Wahkeena Falls via the 2.4-mile loop. This hike offers quieter forest sections, more waterfalls, and beautiful Gorge scenery — perfect if you want to escape the crowds at the main viewpoint.
Chris and I especially love the early-morning hike to Benson Bridge, when the air is cool and the mist catches the first light. It’s one of those moments when Oregon feels completely magical.
Photography Tips for Visitors
Even if you’re not a professional photographer, Multnomah Falls is one of those places where every shot looks postcard-worthy — but a few tricks can help you capture its beauty at its best.
Go Early or Late
Light is softest early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Sunrise often brings mist and golden tones, while evening light creates rich contrast on the basalt cliffs. Mornings also mean fewer people on Benson Bridge, making it easier to take clean shots.
Pack a Tripod and a Lens Cloth
The mist around the falls makes long-exposure shots tricky. A lightweight tripod helps you blur the motion of the water, while a lens cloth is essential — spray from the falls will quickly cover your lens.
Use a Polarizing Filter
A polarizer reduces glare on wet rocks and enhances the rich greens of the mossy canyon walls. It also deepens the blue tone of the water for a more vibrant result.
Protect Your Gear
The air near the base is constantly damp. A rain cover or dry bag helps protect your camera or phone, especially when shooting close to the waterfall or on windy days.
Experiment with Angles
Try shooting from below the bridge for a dramatic upward perspective, or from the overlook near the top trail for a rare downward view. Each vantage point shows a completely different side of Multnomah Falls.
Best Season for Photography
- Spring: Most powerful flow, vibrant greenery
- Fall: Colorful foliage, fewer crowds
- Winter: Frozen textures and icy mist for unique shots
Chris and I usually bring both a wide-angle lens (for capturing the full height of the falls) and a standard zoom (for detailed bridge shots). Even a smartphone works beautifully here — just remember to wipe the lens often!
Where to Eat & Stay Nearby
You don’t need to travel far from Multnomah Falls to find a good meal or a comfortable place to stay. Whether you want to enjoy a quick lunch with a view or spend the night surrounded by the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge, there are great options nearby.
Multnomah Falls Lodge
Built in 1925, this stone lodge sits right at the base of the falls. It’s a beautiful place to stop for lunch, a warm drink, or a snack after your hike.
The on-site Multnomah Falls Lodge Restaurant serves Pacific Northwest–inspired dishes and has large windows overlooking the falls. There’s also a gift shop and U.S. Forest Service information desk where you can ask about trail updates and conditions.
Cascade Locks
Just 7 miles east of Multnomah Falls, the small town of Cascade Locks offers several hotels, inns, and restaurants. It’s a convenient base if you plan to explore more waterfalls in the Gorge or hike the Eagle Creek and Wahclella Falls trails.
Hood River
If you’d like more dining and lodging options, head about 30 minutes east to Hood River. This lively riverside town has breweries, local cafés, and boutique hotels — plus great views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood.
Portland
For those on a short trip, Portland is the best home base. The drive to Multnomah Falls is less than an hour, making it an easy half-day or day trip from the city.
Final Thoughts
Multnomah Falls is more than just Oregon’s most famous waterfall — it’s a symbol of the state’s wild, natural beauty. Whether you visit for a quick photo stop or spend a full day exploring the Columbia River Gorge, it’s a place that stays with you.
Some of our favorite experiences here include walking across Benson Bridge, hiking to the top of the falls, and exploring nearby gems like Latourell Falls and Wahkeena Falls. Each visit offers something new — the misty magic of spring, the vibrant colors of fall, or the quiet stillness of winter.
If you’re planning an Oregon road trip or even just a weekend in Portland, make sure Multnomah Falls is on your list. It’s easy to reach, breathtaking in every season, and one of those rare natural wonders that truly lives up to the hype. Take your time, enjoy the moment, and let the roar of the falls remind you why Oregon is such a special place to explore.
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