For an outstanding day hike near Portland, Oregon, head out into the scenic Columbia River Gorge to visit the spectacular Multnomah Falls.
The falls plunges nearly 620 feet to the ground and is one of the highest year-round waterfalls in the United States. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Oregon for its spectacular beauty, no matter the season. The falls are most spectacular in spring and fall when rain volumes are at their highest. However, the falls are well worth visiting during the summer or winter. During winter, you may even be lucky enough to see the falls nearly frozen over and resembling a giant icicle.
The falls is nestled in a region along Interstate 84 known as the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This area is a deep gorge cut by the Columbia River and is approximately 80 miles long with canyon walls up to 4,000 feet deep in some areas.
Many people hike up only to Benson Bridge, built in 1914, as it crosses the creek between the upper portion of the falls and the lower portion.
Quick Details
Location:
Take I-84 westbound from Portland and take Exit 35 to travel along the historic highway or stay in I-84 to left hand Exit 31 to access the freeway parking lot. Take I-84 eastbound from Hood River and take Exit 31 for the freeway parking lot or take Exit 28 to reach the historic highway.
Hike Length:
It is approximately 1.2 miles one way to the top of the falls. Moderate difficulty as the trail gains about 600 feet in elevation. Good for families. Note: this trail can be VERY crowded, especially on weekends. Watch your children as there are steep drop-offs along the trail. There is a small viewing platform overlooking the top of the falls.
If you want a longer hike, you can connect up with the Larch Mountain trail or the Wahkeena Loop Trail. Both trail connectors are clearly marked up near the top of the falls.
At the base of the falls, you’ll find the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. It was built in 1925 and once had rooms for overnight stays. Today, you’ll find a gift shop, restrooms, a snack shop, and the USDA Forest Service Information center in the lower level. The upper level contains a wonderful restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
In the summer, the lodge is a great place to stop and buy an ice cream cone after your hike to the top of the falls. Bring an extra change of clothes for the kids as you’ll see many children playing in the shallow water around the lodge area.
