Multnomah Falls: Day Trips and Tours from Portland, Oregon

Measuring over 180 meters tall, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon. The powerful cascade of icy water and breathtaking natural beauty of the area attracts photographers, nature lovers and hikers from all over the world.

On your day trip to Multnomah Falls from Oregon, you can view the waterfall from the expertly designed viewing bridge and surrounding footpaths. Underground springs from Larch Mountain and snow melt feed the waterfall all year round, ensuring awe-inspiring views any time of the year.

How to get to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon?

Multnomah Falls is one of the most easily accessible destinations for day tours from Portland. Located on Multnomah Creek in the Columbia River Gorge, it is only a 30-minute drive from Portland, Oregon.

From Portland, Oregon, to Multnomah Falls by car

The fastest way to journey to Multnomah Falls is by car. Located just 30 miles (48km) east of Portland, Oregon, you can drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which should take 30 to 40 minutes.

During peak season, the car parking area can fill up quickly. So if you are traveling during peak times, you might consider taking a bus.

From Portland, Oregon, to Multnomah Falls by bus

If you are planning an excursion to Multnomah Falls, then taking the bus is a good option. You can do a day trip with the Columbia Gorge Express bus service. The bus service costs a small fee and travels from the Gateway Transit Center in Portland to Multnomah Falls.

An individual day pass costs US$15 for the day, and it provides unlimited rides between stops. Bear in mind that the trip will take longer by bus than by car.

Guided tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon

A guided tour is a great way to see and explore the Multnomah Falls area since it takes the stress out of planning. Many tours include a professional guide who knows the area. Some of the tours even provide pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon?

Day trips to Multnomah Falls vary, depending on the tour provider you choose. A typical Multnomah Falls day trip from Portland, Oregon, will most likely begin in the morning when the tour bus or shuttle will pick you up from your hotel.

You will be introduced to your tour guide and then journey along the Historic Columbia River Highway to the spectacular waterfalls.

Once you arrive at the falls, you will disembark from the bus and begin your exploration of the incredibly beautiful surroundings. Your tour guide will explain the geographical history of the area while you breathe in the fresh mountain air. You can also pose for photographs on the various footpaths and the famous Benson Bridge.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Multnomah Falls?

There are many excellent tours when choosing a Multnomah Falls day trip from Portland. The most common tours are guided group tours, but small-group and private tours are also available.

Guided tours to Multnomah Falls plus Columbia River Gorge from Portland, Oregon

Most of the guided tours are half-day and start in the morning. Depending on the tour, a bus or shuttle will pick you up from your hotel or a specific place in the center of town and drive you to your destination. All transportation for the day and entry to Multnomah Falls are included in the tour price.  

Most of Columbia River waterfall tours also include visits to Wahkeena Falls and Latourell Falls. The tour guide will pick you up in Portland, Oregon, and will then drive you to the designated waterfalls. The tour price includes live commentary and admission to the waterfalls.

Private tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon

If you would like a day tour to Multnomah Falls with a bit more flexibility, then you can book a private tour. Your tour guide will pick you up in a private vehicle which is reserved for your group only. Private tours are available for individuals and groups, and typically last a half day.

Multnomah Falls e-bike tour from Portland, Oregon

If you want to enjoy the scenery with a bit of workout in your Multnomah Falls jaunt, then book an e-bike tour that takes about 3.5 hours. There’s enough time to see seven waterfalls and do some hikes.

Airplane tour to Multnomah Falls plus Columbia River Gorge from Portland, Oregon

See the stunning Columbia River Gorge from a bird’s-eye view with an airplane tour. This private tour will take 30 minutes and includes an individual headset to hear your guide and plenty of time to take photos of the awe-inspiring aerial view.

How much does a tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon, cost?

A half-day guided tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland, Oregon, costs around US$65 per person and usually includes a tour guide and transportation in a deluxe motorcoach. This tour visits the Vista House at Crown Point, Latourell Falls, Horsetail Falls and Multnomah Falls.

A full-day trip to Multnomah Falls costs around US$85 per person and includes a tour of the Columbia River Gorge in the morning and a city tour of Portland in the afternoon. The tour price can go up to US$130 per person if it includes visits to Hood River and Mount Hood.

Multnomah Falls private tours can cost around US$350 per group of up to three people. The private airplane tour, which gives you an aerial view of the Columbia River Gorge, costs US$300 per person, and the flight is limited to three people.

The Multnomah Falls e-bike tour costs US$100 per person and includes a rental bike, helmet and digital self-guided tour route.

What will you see and do on a Multnomah Falls day trip from Portland, Oregon?

Multnomah Falls area is host to a wide array of species, such as elk, deer, beavers, raccoons, weasels, gophers, squirrels and chipmunks, to name just a few.

The Multnomah Falls Lodge

The Multnomah Falls Lodge is a beautiful fieldstone building. It was originally built in 1925 as an overnight rest area. You can book a delightful meal at the restaurant and visit the gift shop.

Mount Hood

Standing at over 3,400 meters tall, Mount Hood can be seen from Portland. Located east of the city, it is an outdoor lover’s dream come true and offers some of the best hiking experiences around.

Crown Point Vista House

Vista House is a museum overlooking the Columbia River Gorge and serves as a memorial to Oregon pioneers. The octagonal stone building was built in the Art Nouveau style and has the most outstanding views.

What are Multnomah Falls opening times?

The opening hours of Multnomah Falls are from 9 AM to 6 PM daily.

You need a permit to access two separate areas of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Areas — Multnomah Falls and Waterfall Corridor Timed Use Permits. To get a permit, you must make an online reservation at US$2 for each person.

When is the best time to visit Multnomah Falls?

You can visit Multnomah Falls any time of the year, but the summer months are incredibly busy, as it is the height of the tourist season. Visit midweek and out of tourist season if possible, as there are fewer crowds.

Travel tips

• Always stay on the trails and respect closures.
• Wear the proper hiking footwear and weatherproof clothes, as the waterfalls create a cooler climate.
• Book your Multnomah Falls day trip one day ahead and make sure to arrive on time as indicated in your permit.