Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is a 620-foot waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge, about 30 minutes east of Portland. It is Oregon's tallest waterfall, the most-visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, and one of the most photographed landscapes in the American West.

The falls drop in two tiers from a basalt cliff -- a 542-foot upper tier and a 69-foot lower tier, separated by a rocky ledge where the historic Benson Bridge (built 1914) spans the gap. The bridge is the iconic viewpoint, placing visitors directly between the two tiers with mist swirling around them. The walk from the parking lot to the bridge is 0.

2 miles on a paved path, making it accessible for strollers and visitors of all ages.

For families who want more than the bridge viewpoint, a 1. 2-mile paved trail continues from the bridge to the top of the falls. The trail gains about 700 feet of elevation through a series of switchbacks in the forest, with viewpoints along the way.

The view from the top -- looking straight down 620 feet to the pool and bridge below -- is dramatic. The round trip takes 2-3 hours at a family pace with a moderate fitness level.

Spring (April through June) provides the most dramatic falls, when snowmelt from Mount Hood sends maximum water volume over the cliff. Summer has the best weather but the largest crowds. Fall offers foliage color in the surrounding forest. Winter brings reduced water flow but a serene, uncrowded atmosphere.

A timed-use permit is required from May through September. The permit is free but must be reserved in advance at recreation.gov. Permits are released up to 2 weeks before the visit date and sell out quickly for summer weekends. Plan ahead. Off-season visits (October through April) require no permit.

The Multnomah Falls Lodge at the base of the falls houses a restaurant and gift shop. The lodge has been serving visitors since 1925 and provides a convenient (if slightly touristy) meal option. For the best value, pack a picnic and eat at the viewpoint area.

The falls are part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and the drive from Portland follows the Historic Columbia River Highway or I-84 east. The Gorge itself is spectacular -- consider stopping at other viewpoints (Crown Point, Latourell Falls) on the route.