Blog

Oregon has more waterfalls than almost any other state in America — over 230 named waterfalls cascade through its rainforests, basalt canyons, and volcanic landscapes. An Oregon waterfall road trip is one of the best ways to experience the variety of the state, from the lush Columbia River Gorge to the high desert of Central Oregon. Here’s a 4-day itinerary that hits the most photogenic, accessible, and unforgettable falls in the state. Day 1: The Columbia River Gorge — Oregon’s Waterfall Capital Start your road trip just 30 minutes east of Portland in the Columbia River Gorge, where more than 90 waterfalls plunge from the towering basalt cliffs that line the river. This is the crown jewel of any Oregon waterfall trip and easily delivers the highest waterfall density in the state. Begin at Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest waterfall at…

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest — and the good news for budget travelers is that many of its best experiences cost absolutely nothing. From thundering waterfalls to scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks, you can spend a full day (or several) exploring this 80-mile river canyon without spending a dime on admission. Here’s a local’s guide to the best free things to do in the Columbia River Gorge. 1. Visit Multnomah Falls The crown jewel of the Gorge is also completely free to visit. At 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most photographed natural attractions in the country. There’s no entry fee — just walk up to the base, cross the iconic Benson Bridge, or hike to the top viewpoint via a moderately…

Oregon is a waterfall lover’s paradise. With more than 200 named waterfalls across the state, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming — especially if you only have a day or two and want to see the very best. Multnomah Falls is the most famous, but it’s far from the only stunner. So how does Multnomah Falls compare to other Oregon waterfalls like Silver Falls, Proxy Falls, and Tumalo Falls? Here’s an honest, side-by-side guide from a local who runs tours through the Columbia River Gorge every week. Multnomah Falls: The Iconic Crown Jewel At 620 feet tall, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the United States. Its two-tiered drop, the historic Benson Bridge spanning the lower pool, and the year-round flow make it a must-see for any first-time…

Whether you’re fueling up before a waterfall hike or looking for the perfect place to celebrate after a day in the Columbia River Gorge, knowing where to eat near Multnomah Falls can make or break your trip. The gorge has transformed over the last decade into a legitimate food destination, with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, fruit stands, and casual spots that locals love. Here’s your complete guide to the best places to eat near Multnomah Falls — from quick coffee stops on the way out of Portland to sit-down dinners in Hood River. Eating At Multnomah Falls Itself The historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, built in 1925, sits right at the base of the falls and houses both a full-service restaurant and a casual snack bar. The lodge restaurant is the only place in Oregon where you can dine with a…

Planning a trip to Multnomah Falls with kids? You’re in for a treat. Oregon’s tallest waterfall is one of the most family-friendly natural attractions in the Pacific Northwest — but knowing what to expect with little ones in tow makes the difference between a magical day and a meltdown. Here’s everything you need to know about kid-friendly activities at Multnomah Falls, from stroller access to keeping toddlers engaged to full-day itineraries for older kids. Is Multnomah Falls Good for Kids of All Ages? Short answer: yes. The 620-foot cascade wows kids from the moment they step out of the car, and the lower viewpoint is accessible enough that even infants and toddlers can enjoy the full experience. That said, different ages will get different things out of the visit: Infants and toddlers (0–3): The paved path from the parking lot…

Everyone knows Multnomah Falls — and for good reason. It’s the tallest in Oregon, it’s breathtaking, and it’s one of the most-photographed natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. But if you’ve made the drive out to the Columbia River Gorge before, you already know the parking lot fills up by mid-morning and the viewing platform can feel like rush hour. Good news: within an hour or two of downtown Portland, there are dozens of equally stunning waterfalls where you might have the trail almost to yourself. Here are nine hidden waterfalls near Portland that locals love — and exactly how to find them. 1. Latourell Falls Just a few miles west of Multnomah Falls on the Historic Columbia River Highway, Latourell Falls drops 249 feet in a single plunge against a wall of bright yellow lichen — one of the…

If you’re planning a trip to Multnomah Falls, don’t make the rookie mistake of driving out, snapping a few photos, and heading back to Portland. The 620-foot cascade is the headliner, but the Columbia River Gorge around it is packed with waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and small-town charm that most first-time visitors miss entirely. Once you see what’s out here, you’ll wish you had allotted a full day. Here are the best things to do near Multnomah Falls, from five-minute roadside stops to all-day adventures. 1. Chase the Waterfall Corridor The stretch of the Historic Columbia River Highway between Troutdale and Ainsworth State Park is known as the “Waterfall Corridor” — and for good reason. Within about 15 miles, you can see a half-dozen postcard-worthy waterfalls, several of them just steps from the road. The essentials include Latourell Falls…

Multnomah Falls photography is on nearly every Oregon visitor’s bucket list — and for good reason. Standing at 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re shooting with a professional DSLR or your smartphone, a few simple tips can help you come home with images that truly do this place justice. Best Time of Day for Multnomah Falls Photos Timing is everything when it comes to waterfall photography. The falls face north, which means direct sunlight only hits the water during certain hours — and harsh midday sun can wash out your images or create distracting bright spots. For the most even, flattering light, aim to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. During spring and summer, the hours before 10…

Planning a trip to Multnomah Falls and wondering what to wear? You’re not alone — the 620-foot waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge creates its own microclimate, and the weather can be dramatically different from Portland just 30 miles away. Dressing right for Multnomah Falls makes the difference between a magical adventure and a miserable, soggy afternoon. The Golden Rule: Layers Are Your Best Friend The Columbia River Gorge is famous for its unpredictable weather. Even on a sunny Portland morning, the Gorge can be windy, cool, and misty near the waterfall itself. The spray from Multnomah Falls reaches well beyond what you’d expect, creating a perpetual cool mist in the viewing area. Always pack a light waterproof layer regardless of the forecast — you’ll thank yourself later. What to Wear in Spring (March–May) Spring is one of the most…

The Columbia River Gorge is one of Oregon’s most breathtaking destinations — a scenic corridor packed with towering waterfalls, cliffside viewpoints, historic landmarks, and some of the best small-town food in the Pacific Northwest. If you’re visiting Portland and want to experience the Gorge in a single unforgettable day, this Columbia River Gorge day trip itinerary will help you make the most of every hour. Whether you’re driving yourself or booking a guided tour, here’s a tried-and-true plan that hits the highlights without feeling rushed. Before You Go: A Few Quick Tips From late May through early September, the most popular stops in the Gorge — especially Multnomah Falls — require a timed-use permit. Parking fills up by mid-morning, and the lots at Multnomah Falls and the Historic Columbia River Highway viewpoints often turn cars away. Arriving early, being flexible…

If you’re planning a trip to Multnomah Falls, one of the most important questions to ask is: do you need a permit to visit Multnomah Falls? The short answer is — it depends on when you go and how you get there. Oregon’s most iconic waterfall draws over two million visitors a year, and to manage the crowds and protect the Columbia River Gorge, the U.S. Forest Service introduced a timed-use permit system. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit. What Is the Multnomah Falls Timed-Use Permit? The Multnomah Falls timed-use permit system was created to limit the number of vehicles entering the Multnomah Falls Historic Highway parking area during peak season. Without a permit, you simply cannot drive your personal vehicle into the designated parking area during the hours the system is in effect — and there’s…

If you’re planning a trip to Multnomah Falls and wondering whether it’s wheelchair accessible, the short answer is: yes — partially. The most dramatic and iconic views of Multnomah Falls are fully accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility, making it one of the most inclusive natural attractions in the Pacific Northwest. But like many waterfall destinations, there are some areas that remain challenging terrain. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit. The Lower Viewing Area: Fully Accessible The main plaza at the base of Multnomah Falls is paved, level, and fully accessible. From the moment you step off the shuttle or out of your car, you can reach the visitor center, the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, and the lower viewing area without any significant barriers. The view from this spot is spectacular — you’re looking…