Photo courtesy of Washington Trails Association community
In a crowded field of jaw-dropping Northwest destinations, Multnomah Falls is truly a stand-out. It’s Oregon’s highest waterfall at 620 feet, and its iconic image with the historic Benson Bridge arcing across the upper splash pool is known around the world. When you visit Multnomah Falls, along with taking in the scenery, you can explore several hikes leaving from the falls or dine at the Multnomah Falls Lodge, a historic park building constructed in 1925. It’s a stop you don’t want to miss when you visit the Columbia River Gorge.
If you’re planning to drive your car to Multnomah Falls this summer, you’ll need a timed use permit for parking. From May 23 through September 1, visitors will need a permit between 9am and 6pm to park in the exit 31 parking lot, which is the closest parking to the falls along I84.
You can reserve your $2 permit up to two weeks ahead. Or, a limited number of free same-day permits are available in person at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center in Troutdale and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum. You’ll have a designated one-hour window for your arrival, but you can stay to enjoy the view, hike, or have a meal at the lodge for the rest of the day.
Keep in mind that the permit doesn’t guarantee parking; Multnomah Falls is a popular destination and the parking lot fills up.
If you want to skip the parking hassles entirely, you have several options.
- The Columbia Gorge Express leaves Portland’s Gateway Transit Center multiple times per day.
- Waterfall Shuttle will deliver you right to the falls’ doorstep. They have pickup locations in downtown Portland or at Migration Brewing in Gresham, Oregon.
- Sasquatch Shuttle runs seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day and includes free parking for your vehicle at the Columbia Gorge Premium Outlets and all-day rides to the falls.
- The Waterfall Trolley is a narrated open-air experience with hop-on, hop-off stops throughout the gorge. Your ride starts in Corbett, just east of Portland.
- Or, you can arrive on a bicycle, a fun option if you’re fit and adventurous.
You don’t need a permit before 9am or after 6pm, so visiting in off-hours is another great way to enjoy Multnomah Falls. Plus, you’ll enjoy comfortable temps and miss the crowds.
