I have mixed feelings about Multnomah Falls. At 600+ feet tall, the waterfall is one amazing sight. The scenery around the waterfall is just as amazing. Even the pedestrian bridge adds a charming feeling. Surprisingly, crossing the bridge is not as bad as I thought it would be, especially for somebody not fond of heights :).

On the other hand, this is one busy waterfall. It’s a tall waterfall and it requires finding just the right place to take a picture of most of the waterfall. And that’s the problem…there are so many people there that everybody’s standing in your way. I’m sure I was standing in somebody’s way at some point. It’s unavoidable. There are just so many other waterfalls in the area that aren’t as busy. When hiking to Elowah Falls and Upper Latourell Falls, I was the only one on the trail. I do enjoy a certain amount of quiet when hiking to falls.

There are other waterfalls above Multnomah Falls, but beware. The trailhead is accessed by crossing the bridge and then heading up the left side of the falls. Think about it, though…You’ll be climbing 600+ feet in about a mile. This means rather steep switchbacks. I probably got 4/5 of the way there, and just gave up. (A few years later, I did succeed on my second visit/attempt at seeing Weisendanger Falls.) My suggestion would be that if you want to try seeing those other waterfalls, start early in the day before you’ve visited multiple other waterfalls. Dress in layers also, as you’re likely to get very warm while hiking up, even if it’s not that warm out.

As of 2023 on US Forest Service website, there is now a reservation system for the summer months. I would include a link, but often the links expire, and it wasn’t difficult to find information the reservation system.

Directions:

1. Take the exit off of I-84 toward the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Trail, and follow the road. It’s pretty hard to miss Multnomah Falls. The parking for the falls is actually right in the middle of the road. Don’t forget to check out the numerous other waterfalls in the area.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 620′
Length of Hike: Roadside

Where in the World is Multnomah Falls?