In short
- Multnomah is 620 feet tall; Wahkeena is 242 feet tall.
- Multnomah draws 2 million annual visitors; Wahkeena is far less crowded.
- You can hike between them on a scenic 5-mile loop trail.
In this article
Choosing between Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls depends on your priorities. Multnomah gives you sheer scale and easy accessibility. Wahkeena rewards hikers with smaller crowds and dense forest paths.
How tall is Multnomah Falls vs Wahkeena Falls?
Multnomah Falls is 620 feet tall, while Wahkeena Falls drops 242 feet.
Multnomah holds the record as Oregon's tallest waterfall. It falls in two main sections: a 542-foot upper drop and a 69-foot lower tier. Wahkeena Falls does not plunge over a sheer cliff. Instead, its water tumbles down a 242-foot tiered rock face.
Which waterfall is more crowded?
Multnomah Falls is significantly more crowded than Wahkeena Falls.
Over 2 million people visit Multnomah Falls every year. It is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest. The lower viewing plaza and 1925 lodge stay busy year-round. Wahkeena Falls sees a fraction of this traffic, making it a better option for a quiet hike.
Are the trails paved and accessible?
Multnomah Falls offers better accessible viewing areas than Wahkeena Falls.
The lower viewing platform at Multnomah Falls is fully paved and accessible. You can see the entire 620-foot drop without hiking. The hike to the top of Multnomah is a steep, 1.2-mile paved climb with 11 switchbacks. The trail to Wahkeena climbs steadily through the forest and is less developed.
Do I need a summer parking permit?
You need a $2 Timed Use Permit to park at the Multnomah Falls I-84 lot during summer.
Between late May and early September, personal vehicles parking at the I-84 Exit 31 lot must have a permit from Recreation.gov. Private shuttle lots nearby charge up to $20. Check our guide on Summer Parking Permits for exact dates.
Can I hike from Multnomah Falls to Wahkeena Falls?
Yes, you can connect both waterfalls using the Wahkeena Return Trail #442.
This connection creates a popular 5-mile day-hike loop. The route takes 3 to 4 hours to complete. You will pass several smaller, secluded waterfalls along the way. Be sure to carry a reusable water bottle and wear sturdy hiking boots.
Which waterfall is better for families?
Multnomah Falls is better for families with young children or strollers.
The lower plaza at Multnomah is entirely flat. The lodge offers indoor bathrooms, a restaurant, and a visitor center. The walk to the 1914 Benson Bridge is only 0.2 miles, though it is steep. Wahkeena is better suited for older children comfortable with hiking rugged trails.
Questions travellers ask
How far is Multnomah Falls from Portland?
Multnomah Falls is a 35 to 45-minute drive from Portland via Interstate 84 East.
Can I take a bus to the waterfalls?
Yes, the Columbia Gorge Express (CAT) departs from Portland's Gateway Transit Center. A one-way ticket costs $10.
When is the best time to see the water flowing?
Peak water flow occurs during winter and spring. Both waterfalls flow year-round because underground springs feed them.
