Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Prepare for your trip with details on the summer permit system, hiking trail times, and parking logistics.
Multnomah Falls
53000 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Bridal Veil
GPS 45.576, -122.1154
Open directionsGetting there
Getting from Portland to the waterfall.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive Interstate 84 East to Exit 31 (a left-lane exit). | 35-45 minutes from Portland | $2 parking permit during summer peak season | Parking is highly competitive. A Timed Use Permit is strictly required for the lot from late May to early September. |
| Bus: Columbia Gorge Express (CAT) departing from Portland's Gateway Transit Center or Troutdale. | 35-50 minutes | $10 one-way | Drop-off is directly at the falls. Requires exact cash on board, or a digital GOrge Pass purchased online. |
| Tour: Guided half-day Columbia River Gorge waterfall tours departing from downtown Portland. | 3.5 to 4.5 hours | $60 - $80 | Includes transportation, a guided history of the gorge, and stops at multiple neighboring waterfalls. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The waterfall flows year-round. Peak flow occurs in winter and spring. Summer brings large crowds, requiring a $2 parking permit. Early fall and spring provide the best mix of good weather and manageable visitor numbers.
What to bring
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The paved hike to the upper viewing deck climbs 600 feet.
The trail features 11 switchbacks.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your visit.
The essential views for visitors short on time.
- Arrive and park
Park at the I-84 Exit 31 lot with your timed use permit.
- Lower Viewing Platform
Take photos of the full 620-foot waterfall from the paved plaza.
- Hike to Benson Bridge
Walk the steep 0.2-mile paved trail to the stone footbridge.
- Multnomah Falls Lodge
Grab an espresso or visit the gift shop in the historic 1925 lodge.
A longer visit reaching the top of the falls and beyond.
- Arrive early
Secure parking and avoid the heaviest crowds on the trail.
- Hike past Benson Bridge
Continue past the bridge up the 11 paved switchbacks.
- Upper Viewing Deck
Look down the 542-foot upper drop from the observation area.
- Wahkeena Return Trail
Connect to trail #442 for a 5-mile loop seeing smaller waterfalls.
Packing for the hike
Bring a rain jacket or waterproof layer, as spray from the falls is common at the lower viewpoints. Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip. The paved trail is steep and can be slippery.
If you take the Columbia Gorge Express bus, bring exact change ($10) or buy a digital pass online in advance. Pack a reusable water bottle and warm layers. The gorge can be windy and much cooler than downtown Portland.
Easiest way to do it
Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Half-Day Hiking Tour
4 h 5.0 (2,499)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- We'll bring reusable bottles if you've left your own at home!
- Permit and parking fees for Multnomah Falls included during the permit season
From$69per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How far is it from Portland?
The falls are a 35 to 45-minute drive from Portland via Interstate 84 East.
Do I need to print my permit?
You can use a printed copy or a downloaded digital version of your Timed Use Permit.
Where is the visitor center?
The USFS Visitor Center is located on the lower level of the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge.