Yes, It's That Crowded. Yes, You Still Have To Go.

Oregon's tallest waterfall is basically the prom queen of the Gorge. Gorgeous, popular, and a total pain to get close to.

Why Visit Multnomah Falls

Alright, let's just get it out of the way: you will be sharing this waterfall with approximately half the population of the Pacific Northwest. I'm not kidding. But listen, there's a reason Multnomah Falls is the most popular girl in school. When you first see that 620-foot ribbon of water dropping down a sheer cliff face, you'll get it. It’s so absurdly beautiful it almost looks fake. It’s one of those places you just *have* to see at least once, even if you have to throw a few elbows for a good photo op. (Kidding... mostly.)

Photo Gallery

Hiking Tips

The Parking Apocalypse: I cannot stress this enough. The main lot on the Historic Highway fills up by 9 AM on a summer weekend, maybe earlier. Go on a Tuesday in February if you want to park without a battle. Otherwise, be prepared to circle like a vulture waiting for a spot.
The Actual Hike: Don't just stop at the bottom with the masses! The paved path to the iconic Benson Bridge is easy peasy, but the real workout is the series of 11 switchbacks to the top viewpoint. It's only a mile up, but your glutes will feel it. The view from the top platform looking down is absolutely worth the sweat.
Footwear, Please: I have seen people attempting this in flip-flops and I just can't. The path can be wet and slick from the constant mist, especially on the upper trail. Wear actual shoes with some grip. Your ankles will thank you.
Snacks Are Life: The historic lodge at the base has food and a gift shop, but it's tourist-priced. Pack your own water and snacks. You'll want them after climbing all those switchbacks, trust me.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, there's no *bad* time to see this waterfall, but your experience will vary wildly depending on when you go. Spring is my absolute favorite. The snowmelt turns the falls into a roaring, angry monster and the mist will soak you from a hundred feet away. Summer is stunning, but you'll be sharing it with every tourist bus in Oregon. Fall brings nice colors and slightly thinner crowds. Winter can be a magical ice palace, but check for trail closures, as the paths can get dangerously icy.

Photography Tips

The Classic Shot: Everyone takes the photo from the lower viewing platform with the Benson Bridge in the frame. Do it. It's a classic for a reason. Get low to the ground to make it feel even bigger.
Bridge Perspective: Get ON the Benson Bridge for a great angle looking straight up at the 542-foot upper drop. It really gives you a sense of the scale and power.
Long Exposure Magic: Your biggest photographic challenge isn't the light, it's the people. If you have a tripod and an ND filter, this is the place to use them. It'll blur the water into that silky look and, bonus, it can make the swarms of tourists disappear if they keep moving.
Go Overcast: Bright sun creates harsh, spotty light on the falls. A nice, gray, overcast Oregon day is actually perfect for getting beautiful, even light on the water and rocks.

Directions & Access

It's ridiculously easy to find, which is probably why it's so crowded. From Portland, just drive east on I-84 for about 30 minutes and take Exit 31. You literally cannot miss it—the parking lot is right there between the highway and the cliff. The trailhead is obvious from the parking lot, just walk towards the giant, historic lodge. You'll hear the waterfall before you see it.

GPS Coordinates: 45.5762, -122.1157

You used to need a Northwest Forest Pass to park, but now access is managed differently. During the busy season (roughly late May to early September), you MUST get a timed-use permit online beforehand. Do not just show up! For the love of all that is holy, check the official recreation.gov or US Forest Service website for the most current permit requirements before you even get in your car. The lower viewing platform is wheelchair accessible, but the trail to the upper viewpoint is not.