Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls are a stunning two-tiered waterfall that drops a total of 620 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Oregon. The waterfall is located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, just a 30-minute drive from Portland. Multnomah Falls are easily accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains.
Multnomah Falls is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest with more than 2 million visitors stopping by each year to marvel at the massive waterfall cascading down towering, sheer cliffs through a lush forest.
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Get there via Google Maps.
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Dogs are allowed on a leash.
About
Height: 620 ft.
Elevation: 627 ft.
Number of drops: 2
Location: Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah County, Oregon, U.S
World height ranking: 434
An Icon
Multnomah Falls are fed by underground springs from Larch Mountain. The flow over the falls varies, but is usually highest during winter and spring with increased rainfall and snowmelt.
There are two main viewing areas for the falls, the lower viewing platform, which is accessible by a short paved trail, and the upper viewing platform, which is accessible by a steep 1-mile hike. The falls are open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience. In the summer, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery, while in the winter, they are often framed by icicles and snow.
History of Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls holds a special place in the history of the Pacific Northwest. The name "Multnomah" comes from the Chinook First Nation word for "downriver," which refers to the location of the falls on the Columbia River. The falls have been a popular destination for tourists since the late 1800s when a trail was built to access the falls.
The area surrounding the falls has a rich history for local indigenous, including the Chinook, Multnomah, and Cascade First Nations. The falls were also a popular spot for early settlers, who built a lodge nearby in the early 1900s.
In 1915, the first Benson Bridge was built, connecting the two tiers of the falls and providing a closer view of the cascading water. The bridge was rebuilt in 1995 and remains a popular spot for visitors to take in the breathtaking views of the falls.
Geology of Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and erosion. The falls are fed by underground springs that originate on Larch Mountain, which is located about 14 miles away. The water flows through porous basalt rock before cascading over the edge of the falls.
Multnomah Falls are composed of two tiers, with the upper tier dropping 542 feet and the lower tier dropping 69 feet. The rock formations surrounding the falls are made up of columnar basalt, which was formed by the cooling and cracking of lava flows.
The basalt rock formations also make for a unique viewing experience, as they create interesting patterns and textures on the surrounding cliffs.
Flora and Fauna of Multnomah Falls
The area surrounding Multnomah Falls is teeming with wildlife and plant life. The falls are surrounded by dense forests, which provide habitat for a variety of animals, including black bears, cougars, and elk. Visitors may also spot smaller mammals, such as raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks.
The forests surrounding the falls are composed of a variety of tree species, including Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple. The area is also home to a number of wildflowers, including trillium, lupine, and wild rose.
Hiking Trails at Multnomah Falls
One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Multnomah Falls is by hiking one of the many trails in the area. The most popular trail is the 1-mile hike to the upper viewing platform, which offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding forests.
For more experienced hikers, there are several longer trails in the area, including the 6.6-mile Larch Mountain Trail, which offers views of five different waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls. The trail is strenuous but is well worth the effort for the stunning views.
There are also several shorter trails in the area, including the .2-mile Weisendanger Falls Trail, which leads to a small waterfall just east of Multnomah Falls, and the .3-mile Wahkeena Falls Trail, which leads to another stunning waterfall in the area.
Best Viewpoints at Multnomah Falls
While the lower and upper viewing platforms offer stunning views of the falls, there are several other viewpoints in the area that are worth checking out. One of the best viewpoints is from the Benson Bridge, which provides a unique perspective of the falls and the surrounding cliffs.
Another great viewpoint is from the top of the falls, which can be accessed via the Larch Mountain Trail. From the top of the falls, visitors can see the entire Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding forests.
Multnomah Falls Lodge and Restaurant
For those looking to stay in the area, the Multnomah Falls Lodge offers a unique lodging experience. The lodge was built in the early 1900s and has been restored to its original grandeur. The lodge offers a variety of rooms, including rooms with views of the falls.
The lodge also has a restaurant that serves Pacific Northwest cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the falls.
Tips for Visiting Multnomah Falls
When visiting Multnomah Falls, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. First, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be steep and uneven. Second, be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can be prone to rain and wind.
Third, be respectful of the natural surroundings and wildlife in the area. This means staying on designated trails, not feeding the wildlife, and carrying out any trash or waste. Finally, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited food options in the area.
Other Natural Attractions Near Multnomah Falls
While Multnomah Falls is the main attraction in the area, there are several other natural attractions that are worth checking out. One of the most popular is the nearby Oneonta Gorge, which offers stunning views of a narrow canyon and a unique hiking experience.
Another great spot to check out is the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River and the surrounding mountains. The highway is also home to several other waterfalls, including Wahclella Falls and Horsetail Falls.
A Pacific Northwest Icon
Multnomah Falls is a natural wonder that should be on every nature lover's bucket list. From the stunning waterfalls to the lush forests and unique geology, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual observer, Multnomah Falls offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Multnomah Falls today and discover the natural beauty of this breathtaking destination.
An Indigenous Tale
According to a creation story from the Multnomah First Nation, the waterfall was formed after a young woman sacrificed herself to the Great Spirit to save Multnomah Village from a plague.
She jumped from the cliff, and the Multnomah peoples were saved.