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.
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.
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.
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.
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.