Where to Stay Near Multnomah Falls: Best Hotels, Lodging & Towns in the Columbia River Gorge
Wondering where to stay near Multnomah Falls? While there’s no hotel right at the waterfall itself, the Columbia River Gorge offers a range of lodging within easy driving distance — from historic riverside inns to riverfront hotels in Hood River and budget-friendly options in Troutdale. This guide breaks down the best places to stay near Multnomah Falls so you can wake up close to Oregon’s most famous waterfall and the Gorge’s endless adventures.
Is There Lodging at Multnomah Falls?
One of the most common questions visitors ask is whether they can stay overnight at Multnomah Falls. The historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, built in 1925, is a beautiful stone building at the base of the falls — but despite its name, it is no longer an overnight lodge. Today it operates as a restaurant, gift shop, and visitor center, not a hotel. To stay near the falls, you’ll need to book lodging in one of the nearby towns along the Columbia River.
Troutdale: The Closest Town to Multnomah Falls
Just west of the falls, Troutdale marks the official gateway to the Columbia River Gorge and is the closest town with hotels — roughly 20 minutes from Multnomah Falls. You’ll find familiar chain hotels and a few charming local options here, making it a convenient and often more affordable base. Staying in Troutdale puts you close to the start of the Historic Columbia River Highway, so you can hit the waterfall corridor first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Hood River: The Gorge’s Adventure Hub
About 40 minutes east of Multnomah Falls, Hood River is the most popular overnight base for Gorge travelers. This lively riverfront town is known for windsurfing, craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and a walkable downtown. Lodging ranges from boutique hotels and the historic Hood River Hotel to riverfront resorts with sweeping views of the Columbia. If you want to combine your waterfall visit with dining, tasting rooms, and outdoor recreation, Hood River is hard to beat.
Cascade Locks and Stevenson
For a quieter, more scenic stay, the small towns of Cascade Locks (Oregon side) and Stevenson (Washington side) sit right in the heart of the Gorge. Cascade Locks is home to the famous Bridge of the Gods and offers motels and riverside camping. Across the river, Stevenson features resort-style lodging with hot springs and spa amenities. Both put you in the middle of the action, roughly 25 to 35 minutes from Multnomah Falls.
Portland: Best for City Comforts
If you’d rather pair your waterfall trip with a city stay, Portland is only about 30 minutes from Multnomah Falls. The east side of the metro area — including Gresham and the airport corridor — offers the most convenient access to the Gorge while keeping you close to Portland’s restaurants, shops, and nightlife. This is a great option if Multnomah Falls is one stop on a larger Oregon itinerary.
Camping and RV Options
For those who prefer to stay outdoors, the Gorge has excellent campgrounds. Ainsworth State Park, just minutes east of Multnomah Falls, offers tent and RV sites surrounded by towering trees and nearby trailheads. Cascade Locks Marine Park and several Forest Service campgrounds provide additional options. Spring through fall is the prime camping season, and sites fill quickly on summer weekends, so reserve early.
How to Choose the Right Base
Picking where to stay comes down to your priorities. Choose Troutdale or east Portland for the shortest drive and budget-friendly chains. Pick Hood River if you want dining, breweries, and a vibrant downtown. Opt for Cascade Locks or Stevenson for a peaceful, scenic stay in the middle of the Gorge. Whatever you choose, staying overnight lets you beat the day-trip crowds and experience the waterfalls in the soft early-morning light.
Skip the Drive — Let Us Handle the Logistics
No matter where you stay, getting to Multnomah Falls means dealing with limited parking, seasonal permits, and winding Gorge roads. That’s where we come in. Book a Waterfall Shuttle tour from your home base and we’ll take care of the driving, parking, and permits — so you can simply relax and enjoy the views. Stay anywhere in the Gorge, and let Waterfall Shuttle bring the waterfalls to you.