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If you’re planning a trip to Multnomah Falls or anywhere in the Columbia River Gorge, you’ll almost certainly travel a stretch of the Historic Columbia River Highway. Often called “the King of Roads,” this 75-mile route is one of the most scenic drives in the United States — and arguably the single best way to experience Oregon’s waterfalls, viewpoints, and forested cliffs in a single day.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go: a quick history, the must-see stops, when to visit, what to skip, and how to take in the highlights without the parking and permit headaches.

A Brief History of the Historic Columbia River Highway

Completed in 1922, the Historic Columbia River Highway (US-30) was the first planned scenic roadway in the United States. It was the brainchild of attorney Sam Hill and engineer Samuel Lancaster, who designed the road to harmonize with the landscape rather than blast through it. The result was an engineering marvel that hugged cliffs, curved around basalt outcrops, and revealed waterfalls and vistas as part of a deliberate sequence.

The highway was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000 and stretches from Troutdale in the west to The Dalles in the east. Today, sections are open to cars, while others have been restored as the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, accessible only on foot or by bike.

The Best Stops Along the Historic Columbia River Highway

If you’re driving the western section (the most photogenic stretch), here are the stops you should not miss, listed roughly from west to east.

Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint

This is the classic postcard view of the Columbia River Gorge — the one with Crown Point and Vista House in the distance and the river curving toward the horizon. It’s free, the parking lot is small, and most visitors stay only ten or fifteen minutes. Go at sunrise or sunset for the best light.

Vista House at Crown Point

Built in 1918 as a “comfort station” for early travelers, the octagonal Vista House sits 733 feet above the Columbia River. Inside, you’ll find a small museum, gift shop, and panoramic views from the upper observation deck. Admission is free, and on a clear day you can see Washington’s forests across the river.

Latourell Falls

This 249-foot single-drop waterfall is one of the most photogenic stops on the highway. Unlike many gorge waterfalls, you can see Latourell directly from the parking lot — no hiking required. There’s also a short loop trail (about 2.4 miles) that takes you to Upper Latourell Falls if you want to stretch your legs.

Shepperd’s Dell Falls

Often overlooked, Shepperd’s Dell is a small, layered waterfall just a short walk from a stone-arched bridge. It takes maybe five minutes to see, but it’s one of the most peaceful stops on the route.

Bridal Veil Falls State Park

A short, paved trail leads down to a viewing platform for Bridal Veil Falls — a two-tiered waterfall that flows year-round. There’s also an upper loop trail along the cliff edge with views of the river.

Wahkeena Falls

Wahkeena is a 242-foot tiered waterfall and the trailhead for one of the gorge’s best loop hikes. Many visitors combine Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls into a 5-mile loop that climbs into the forest above the river.

Multnomah Falls

The star of the show. At 620 feet, Multnomah is Oregon’s tallest waterfall and one of the most-visited natural attractions in the Pacific Northwest. The famous Benson Bridge spans the two tiers, and the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge offers food, a gift shop, and restrooms. Note: during peak season (late May through early September), a timed-use permit is required if you’re parking in the lot off I-84.

Oneonta Gorge and Horsetail Falls

Just east of Multnomah, Horsetail Falls drops 176 feet right next to the road. Across the street, the entrance to Oneonta Gorge opens into a narrow, moss-walled slot canyon. Note that wading through Oneonta has been restricted in recent years due to safety concerns and trail damage — check current conditions before you go.

Driving vs. Biking vs. Touring

You have three realistic ways to experience the Historic Columbia River Highway:

Driving yourself is the most flexible option but comes with real drawbacks: limited parking at most viewpoints, narrow shoulders, slow traffic on weekends, and the timed-use permit system at Multnomah Falls. If you go this route, start early — ideally before 9 a.m. — and have a backup plan if lots are full.

Biking the State Trail sections is fantastic if you have a half-day and reasonable fitness. The car-free portion between Cascade Locks and Hood River offers some of the best views without any traffic stress. Several local outfitters rent e-bikes.

Taking a guided shuttle tour removes every logistical headache: no parking, no permit, no driving on narrow roads. You also get a guide who knows the history, the best photo spots, and where to skip the crowds. Waterfall Shuttle runs daily tours that cover all the major stops above with comfortable transportation and an expert guide.

When to Visit the Historic Columbia River Highway

Spring (March–May) is peak waterfall season. Snowmelt swells every fall to its loudest, and wildflowers carpet the cliffs. Expect rain — bring layers.

Summer (June–August) brings the warmest weather and the biggest crowds. This is also when the Multnomah Falls timed-use permit is in effect. Visit early or late in the day to avoid the worst of it.

Fall (September–November) offers the best balance of weather and crowd levels. Bigleaf maples turn brilliant yellow, and the air is crisp without being cold.

Winter (December–February) is the most magical time for waterfall lovers willing to brave the cold. Frozen mist on cliff walls, occasional snow at higher elevations, and very few other visitors. Watch for ice on the road and trail closures after storms.

Practical Tips Before You Go

Bring layers, even in summer — the gorge generates its own weather and waterfalls create a cooling mist that can drop temperatures 10–15 degrees at viewpoints. Wear closed-toe shoes with grip; the trails and viewing platforms get slick from spray and rain. Cell service is spotty east of Troutdale, so download offline maps before you go. And restrooms are concentrated at Vista House, Multnomah Falls Lodge, and a few state park stops — plan accordingly.

Make It Easy on Yourself

The Historic Columbia River Highway is one of those rare drives that genuinely lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Portland local who’s never quite gotten around to seeing it, set aside a full day, take your time, and treat it as a destination rather than a thoroughfare.

If you’d rather skip the parking lottery, the permit hassle, and the white-knuckle curves, let us handle the logistics. Book a Waterfall Shuttle tour and we’ll guide you through the highlights of the Historic Columbia River Highway — Vista House, Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls, and more — while you focus on the view.