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Tiered

Multnomah Falls620ft Tiered in Oregon

Multnomah Falls is a 620-foot tiered waterfall in Multnomah County, Oregon, reached by a moderate hike over 2.2 miles.

Multnomah Falls is the 620-foot two-tiered waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge — Oregon's most-visited natural attraction and one of the most photographed waterfalls in the U.S. The iconic Benson Footbridge crosses the gorge between the Upper Falls (542 feet) and Lower Falls (69 feet), creating one of the world's signature waterfall viewpoints. The 2.2-mile paved switchback trail to the top is moderate; the Lower Falls overlook from the lodge area is wheelchair-accessible. The Historic Columbia River Highway access requires timed-use permits during peak summer afternoons.

4.6Editorial pick

What to expect

Drive Interstate 84 east from Portland to the Multnomah Falls exit. Or drive the Historic Columbia River Highway (Highway 30) for the scenic approach with timed-use permit during summer. Park in the lodge lot (free, fills early). Lower Falls viewpoint is right at the lodge. The 2.2-mile switchback trail to the top of Upper Falls is moderate with about 700 feet of elevation gain. Pair with other Columbia River Gorge waterfalls (Wahkeena, Horsetail, Latourell, Bridal Veil, Punchbowl).

Multnomah Falls — hero photo
Photo: en.wikipedia.org

Best season

spring runoff

Dogs

Leashed dogs allowed

Permit

Not required

County

Multnomah County

Trail beta

Timed-use permits apply on busy summer afternoons for the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Photography tip

Plan for spring runoff and try a mid-range focal length to layer the multiple drops that make Multnomah Falls feel so tall.

FAQ

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