Multnomah Falls
Oregon's tallest waterfall, where snow melt from Larch Mountain plunges more than 600 feet into the Columbia River Gorge.
Field Note 001
Overview
Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Pacific Northwest thanks to its iconic mid-fall bridge. Acording to Waterfall Lovers Guide Pacific Northwest (see below), it's the tallest waterfall in the US that is easily accessible year-round. Fed by underground springs and snowmelt from nearby Larch Mountain, it flows throughout the year. As with many natural waterfalls, its character changes dramatically with the seasonal precipitation patterns.
Its location along the Historic Columbia River Highway has made it a destination for travelers for more than a century, and today it remains one of the most visited natural attractions in the Columbia River Gorge. Between the two levels is a stone bridge built by Simon Benson in 1914. At the base of the falls is Multnomah Falls Lodge, home to a visitors center (hours vary seasonally), a table service restaurant, and a couple of small coffee/ice cream shops.
What There Is to See
The two-tiered waterfall, dropping a total of 620 feet (542 on the upper and 69 on the lower falls).
Benson Bridge, crossing between the upper and lower falls.
Multnomah Falls Lodge, built in 1925 from native stone.
The paved trail to the upper overlook.
Views of the surrounding Columbia River Gorge.
What Surprised Us
This iconic place is in our PNW backyard! And despite what theTwilight movie might try to convince you of, it's not anywhere near Forks, Washington.
Multnomah is also so close to I-84. Most waterfalls like this are remote or only seen from a distance, but at Multnomah, you park near the base, and a quick hike up to the Benson Bridge allows you to get so close to the middle of the upper falls that you can feel its raw power towering over you.
Continue Exploring
Watch Next
Read Deeper
Waterfall Lover's Guide Pacific Northwest (Fifth Ed.) by Gregory A Plumb
Roadside Geology of Oregon by Marli Miller
Plan Your Field Trip
Located about 30 miles east of Portland, Oregon on I-84.
Inexpensive timed-entry permits may be required during portions of the summer season.
The paved walk to Benson Bridge is short but steep.
Continue to the upper overlook for a different perspective of the falls.
If you have time, plan to visit some of the other falls along the Columbia River Gorge (eg. Wahkeena, Necktie, or Fairy).