Multnomah Falls

Welcome to the majestic Columbia River Gorge, a breathtaking natural corridor where the mighty Columbia River forcefully drops through the rugged Cascade Mountains on its relentless journey toward the Pacific Ocean. This…

Our journey formally begins at the bustling arrival point of the Multnomah Falls recreation area. For those arriving via modern public transportation, the journey often starts with a flight into Portland, followed by a ride on…

Immediately upon emerging from the highway underpass and stepping into the main plaza, your attention is captivated by the elegant, rustically designed Multnomah Falls Lodge. Constructed in a timeless architectural style that…

Stepping away from the protective stone facade of the lodge, you follow the paved, accessible pathway that leads directly to the Lower Viewing Platform. This is the quintessential vantage point, the specific geographic coordinate…

Leaving the crowded lower viewpoint behind, you initiate the most physically demanding portion of your journey: the ascent toward the top of the falls. The trail begins with a relatively short but steep walk up to the iconic…

After conquering the final, agonizing switchback, the trail finally levels out, delivering you to the Upper Viewpoint of Multnomah Falls. Arriving at this elevated wooden and stone observation deck brings a profound sense of…

Pressing further into the dense, emerald embrace of the upper canyon, the trail begins a subtle but relentless pursuit of the water source. The rocky, uneven dirt path forces a slower, more deliberate walking pace, allowing the…

Leaving the secluded basin of Wiesendanger behind, you might assume that the grueling uphill portion of the hike has concluded. However, the rugged dirt trail quickly disabuses you of that notion, pitching upward once more in a…

With the grueling elevation gains finally behind you, the trail abruptly shifts its orientation, beginning a long, continuous, and often steep descent down the western flank of the gorge. While the cardiovascular strain on your…

Nearing the absolute bottom of the punishing descent, the quiet, trickling ambiance of the deep forest is suddenly shattered by a renewed, thunderous roar. The trail opens up, depositing you directly at the base of the…

As your boots finally strike the familiar, flat pavement of the central plaza, returning you to the shadow of the Multnomah Falls Lodge, a profound sense of physical fatigue and intellectual satisfaction takes hold. You have…