Multnomah Falls Hiking Trail - Portland (Columbia River), OR

Address:Trailhead at E Historic Columbia River
Larch Mountain, Oregon

The 620 foot Multnomah Falls, plummeting from vertical cliffs to the Columbia River Gorge are breathtaking, to say the least. The trail to these falls, between dense temperate evergreen rainforests is one of the most popular trails in all of Oregon, attracting nearly two million visitors per year.

The length of the trail to Multnomah Falls is 2.4 miles (in and out). Elevation gain is rather significant (600 feet), but since the path is well graded, this trail is relatively easy. Those who wish to walk a shorter distance can observe the falls from the bridge located a short hiking distance from the trailhead. Fit individuals or families who wish to lengthen this trail and beat the crowds can hike the more strenuous Wahkeena-Multnomah Falls loop. This 5.5 mile beautiful trail winds through dense rainforests along pristine streams and half a dozen waterfalls, and reaches great viewpoints of both Multnomah and 240 feet Wahkeena Falls (loop trail, hike clockwise, elevation gain 1,500 feet).

Multnomah Falls is located off Interstate Highway 84, 30 miles east of Portland, Oregon (use exit 35 if traveling east and exit 28 if traveling west). A visitor center, located near the trailhead, is a great place to ask for information and get detailed maps. Since Multnomah Falls is extremely crowded on sunny summer days, start early in order to avoid the crowds. Weather in this area may be wet and damp, so carrying a raincoat in your backpack is a good idea. Enjoy hiking with the cool mist of the magnificent Multnomah Falls sparking in the air around you!