Blog

One of the best-kept secrets about visiting Multnomah Falls is how alive the surrounding landscape truly is. While the iconic 620-foot waterfall draws millions of visitors each year, the Columbia River Gorge is also one of the most ecologically rich corridors in the Pacific Northwest — home to an astonishing variety of wildlife that you can spot year-round. Whether you’re a dedicated birder, a casual nature enthusiast, or simply curious about what might be watching you from the trees, here’s a guide to the wildlife you might encounter at Multnomah Falls and along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Bald Eagles and Other Raptors

The Columbia River Gorge is prime raptor territory, and bald eagles are among the most thrilling sightings you can have here. These majestic birds are most commonly spotted in winter and early spring, when they gather near the river to feed on salmon and other fish. Look for them perched in tall cottonwood trees along the riverbank or circling high above the water on thermal currents.

You’re also likely to see osprey from spring through early fall — watch for them hovering dramatically before plunging feet-first into the water to catch a fish. Red-tailed hawks, Cooper’s hawks, and even the occasional peregrine falcon round out the gorge’s impressive raptor lineup.

Great Blue Herons

The great blue heron is practically the mascot of the Columbia River Gorge. These prehistoric-looking birds stand nearly four feet tall and can often be spotted standing motionless at the water’s edge, patiently waiting to strike at a passing fish. They’re remarkably unbothered by people, which makes for incredible close-up viewing. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot herons actively feeding.

Songbirds and Forest Birds

The old-growth forest surrounding Multnomah Falls is a rich habitat for woodland birds. Steller’s jays are noisy and bold — you’ll almost certainly hear them before you see them. Varied thrushes, with their striking orange and black coloring, sing hauntingly beautiful songs that echo through the forest in spring. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers (including the dramatic pileated woodpecker), Clark’s nutcrackers, and flocks of cedar waxwings in the berry-laden shrubs along the trails.

The Gorge is also an important migration corridor, so spring and fall bring an exciting parade of warblers, vireos, and other songbirds passing through on their way north or south.

Deer and Elk

The forests along the Historic Columbia River Highway support healthy populations of both black-tailed deer and Roosevelt elk — the largest subspecies of elk in North America. Deer are relatively common near trailheads and picnic areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Elk sightings are less frequent but not unusual, particularly if you venture onto the quieter trails in the area. If you’re taking a guided tour through the gorge, your driver may know the best spots to pull over for wildlife viewing.

Salmon, Trout, and Sturgeon in the Columbia River

The Columbia River itself is one of the greatest salmon rivers in the world, and the annual salmon runs are one of nature’s most spectacular events. Chinook salmon begin returning to the river as early as spring, with peak runs occurring through summer and into fall. Coho salmon and steelhead trout follow in autumn. If you’re standing on the Benson Bridge at Multnomah Falls and peer into Multnomah Creek below, you might spot trout holding in the current.

The Columbia River also harbors one of the most ancient creatures in North America: the white sturgeon. These living fossils can grow to over 12 feet long and live for more than 100 years. While you won’t spot them from the waterfall, local fishing guides offer sturgeon viewing and catch-and-release trips from the river itself.

Tips for Wildlife Viewing at Multnomah Falls

Go early or late. The crowds at Multnomah Falls peak in the middle of the day. Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so arriving early not only gives you better animal sightings — it also means shorter lines and better photos of the falls.

Bring binoculars. Many of the gorge’s best wildlife moments happen at a distance. A pair of compact binoculars makes a huge difference for spotting raptors, herons, and songbirds.

Stay on the trail. The vegetation alongside the trails is critical habitat. Staying on designated paths protects both the wildlife and the fragile plants they depend on.

Be quiet and patient. Wildlife doesn’t perform on schedule. Slow down, lower your voice, and give yourself time to watch. The gorge rewards patience.

Visit in different seasons. Each season brings different wildlife highlights — eagles and waterfowl in winter, songbirds and wildflowers in spring, osprey and deer in summer, salmon runs and elk bugling in fall.

Make the Most of Your Wildlife Visit

If you want to maximize your wildlife viewing without the stress of driving the Historic Columbia River Highway (which can get extremely congested), consider letting someone else handle the logistics. Waterfall Shuttle offers guided tours that stop at multiple waterfalls and scenic viewpoints along the gorge, giving you more time to look around and less time worrying about parking. Your guide can point out the best spots for wildlife and share local knowledge about what to look for at each location.

The Columbia River Gorge is extraordinary on its own. But when you start watching for the wildlife woven into every layer of the landscape, it becomes something truly unforgettable. Keep your eyes open — you never know what you might see.