Multnomah Falls, 30 miles east of Portland, is Oregon\'s tallest waterfall.
i
Multnomah Falls, 30 miles east of Portland, is Oregon’s tallest waterfall.

Multnomah Falls

Oregon’s tallest waterfall is a year-round attraction for all ages and abilities.

2 min read

Know Before You Go

MULTNOMAH FALLS IS CLOSED. As of March 25, 2020, the U.S. Forest Service has temporarily closed Multnomah Falls due to health authority recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This closure includes the highway exit, parking lot and lodge. Visit the link above for updates.

In a state where water regularly flows down from upon high, Multnomah Falls — all 620 feet (189 m) of it — stands above the rest as Oregon’s tallest waterfall.

Located just 30 miles (48 km) east of downtown Portland along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the two-drop cascade attracts visitors of all types and ages, with both wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and steep hiking trails that lead all the way to the top. Fed by rainwater and snowmelt, the falls’ steady stream runs year-round, making it a year-round attraction. The highest volume comes in winter and spring, and the waterfall sometimes freezes partially at the height of winter.

Not just a great place to enjoy the view, it’s also perfect for catching your breath before forging ahead to the top or returning to the Multnomah Falls Lodge below. Built in 1925, the lodge also has excellent views and is home to a restaurant, gift shop, espresso bar and U.S. Forest Service interpretive center.

Whether you climb to the top or peer up from the bottom, dress warmly and wear shoes with traction, because the waterfall’s spray makes the entire area cool and slick. Dressing for the water also means you’re already prepared for rainy weather if storm clouds happen to roll into the Columbia River Gorge during your visit.

Know Before You Go

As Oregon’s most-visited site, Multnomah Falls is often crowded, especially on summer weekends, when the parking lot frequently fills up. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend:

Outdoors

More of the Gorge

Discover these gems within the Columbia River Gorge.

Go To Columbia River Gorge
Double-tiered Latourell Falls is the waterfall closest to Portland.

Waterfalls Near Portland

Get your fill of natural wonders by visiting these waterfalls close to Portland.

For more than a century, Crown Point Vista House has offered visitors incredible views of the surrounding Columbia River Gorge.

Crown Point Vista House

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Columbia River from this 100-year-old observatory.

Sunshine Mill in The Dalles

The Dalles

Explore the sunny and historic Columbia River Gorge town of The Dalles.

Outdoor Activities in Portland

Rain or shine, one of the best ways to discover the City of Roses is by heading outside.

Go To Outdoors
Admire ten spectacular waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park.

Silver Falls State Park

Famous for its abundance of picturesque waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon at 9,200 acres (3723 hectares) and one of the most popular.

The Portland Japanese Garden offers over 5 acres of tranquility and a tea house.

Portland Japanese Garden

An authentic example of Japanese landscaping, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty with an unsurpassed view of Mount Hood.

Forest Park has 70 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy.

Forest Park

With 70 miles of trails within Portland city limits, 5,156-acre Forest Park is a popular escape for runners, equestrians and hikers alike.

The Lan Su Chinese Garden offers tranquil garden paths and a cozy tea house.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

An authentic Ming Dynasty style garden built by Suzhou artisans, Lan Su Chinese Garden offers a peaceful escape in Portland's historic Chinatown district.

The Portland Aerial Tram is one of the Ts in this trek.

4T Trail

The 4T trail is a self-guided tour that lets you explore the city — and see some of the best views — without a car.

Portland\'s pet parents love hitting the trails in Forest Park.

Favorite Hiking Spots in Portland

Put on some comfortable shoes and start walking — you’ll be surprised how easy Portland makes it.

The Eastbank Esplanade is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists.

Where to Walk

In addition to Portland’s many pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, your feet can take you to some fantastic places around town.

Take in a tranquil sunrise at one of these Oregon parks and forests.

Sunrise Hikes Near Portland

The secret is out: Oregon’s delivers some of the nation’s best hiking. Beat the crowds by heading out extra early to embark on a breathtaking sunrise hike.

Columbia River Gorge

Starting just 30 miles east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers amazing vistas, trails and more than 90 waterfalls.

Read more