Hiking at Multnomah Falls – Benson Trail and Wahkeena Loop
Hiking at Multnomah Falls
Key Points: Multnomah is an easy hike to the view of “Benson Bridge”
During the summer months be prepared for large crowds and you must purchase a reservation ticket
You can take longer hikes at Multnomah such as to the top of the waterfall or the “Multnomah Wahkeena Loop”
Hiking Multnomah Falls: A Journey to Oregon’s Iconic Waterfall
So you are thinking of sneaking in a hike while in the Columbia River Gorge? Look no further than one of Oregons and the PNW most iconic waterfalls, actually one of the best in the country! Multnomah Falls, just getting to the “Benson Bridge” is about a .4 mile roundtrip from the base of the waterfall.
Nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, just 30 miles east of Portland, Multnomah Falls stands as Oregon’s tallest waterfall at 620 feet, drawing over two million visitors annually. Its dramatic two-tiered cascade, framed by lush greenery and basalt cliffs, makes it a must-visit for hikers, nature lovers, and casual tourists alike. While the falls are stunning from the roadside, hiking the trails around Multnomah Falls offers an immersive experience that reveals the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This article explores the hiking options, practical tips, and unique aspects of exploring Multnomah Falls, ensuring you make the most of your adventure.
The Allure of Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is more than just a pretty postcard. Fed by underground springs from Larch Mountain, the waterfall flows year-round, with peak volume in winter and spring when snowmelt and rain amplify its roar. The falls consist of an upper tier plunging 542 feet, a lower tier dropping 69 feet, and a 9-foot elevation change between them. The iconic Benson Bridge, built in 1914 by lumberman Simon Benson, spans Multnomah Creek between the tiers, offering a close-up view of the cascading water and a misty embrace on windy days. The falls’ accessibility, combined with their grandeur, makes them the most visited natural site in the Pacific Northwest. But don’t let the crowds deter you—hiking beyond the main viewpoints reveals quieter trails and hidden gems.
Hiking Options for Every Level
Multnomah Falls offers trails for hikers of all abilities, from a short stroll to challenging loops. Here are the main options:
- The Benson Bridge Trail (0.4 Miles Round Trip, Easy)
For those seeking a quick but rewarding hike, the paved trail to Benson Bridge is ideal. Starting at the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge (built in 1925), the 0.2-mile path gently ascends to the bridge, gaining about 100 feet in elevation. The trail is wide but steep in parts, so it’s not fully ADA-compliant. At the bridge, you’re treated to a breathtaking view of the upper tier’s whitewater plunging down a mossy cliff, with ferns adding a quintessentially Oregonian charm. This short hike is perfect for families, photographers, or anyone wanting a taste of the falls without committing to a longer trek. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, as the bridge is a popular photo spot.
- The Top of Multnomah Falls (2.4 Miles Round Trip, Moderate)
For a more invigorating experience, continue past Benson Bridge to the top of the falls. This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail, part of the Larch Mountain Trail #441, involves 11 steep switchbacks and a 750-foot elevation gain—equivalent to climbing 60 flights of stairs. The paved path winds through a lush forest of Douglas-fir, maple, and alder, with wildflowers like violets and foamflower blooming in spring. At the 1.1-mile mark, a short spur trail leads to a wooden overlook perched at the lip of the upper falls. Here, you’ll peer down at the tiny lodge below and feel the thrill of standing where Multnomah Creek begins its 542-foot plunge. The view of the Columbia River Gorge from this vantage point is spectacular, especially on clear days. This hike takes about 1.5 hours and requires sturdy footwear due to the steep, uneven terrain.
- Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop (5.4 Miles, Difficult)
For seasoned hikers craving a waterfall-filled adventure, the Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop is a 5.4-mile trek with 1,600 feet of elevation gain. Start at Multnomah Falls Lodge, hike to the top of the falls, then continue on the Larch Mountain Trail along Multnomah Creek, passing smaller cascades like Wiesendanger and Ecola Falls. At the junction with the Wahkeena Trail (#420), turn right and ascend gradually to a crest, then descend past Fairy Falls and the 242-foot Wahkeena Falls. The loop ends with a 0.8-mile return along the Historic Columbia River Highway or the parallel Return Trail through the woods. This challenging hike takes 3-4 hours and offers a quieter, less crowded experience beyond the initial switchbacks. The diversity of waterfalls and forest scenery makes it a favorite for those willing to tackle the elevation. Check out the video below for a visual and video about Wahkeena Falls.
See Also: 10 Essentials for Backpacking by Local Hiking Guides Trails Diverged!
Planning Your Visit
Timing and Crowds: Multnomah Falls is busiest on weekends and holidays, with the parking lot often full by mid-morning. Arrive before 9 a.m. or visit during off-peak seasons (fall or winter) for a more serene experience. Winter visits can be magical, with the falls sometimes partially frozen, though icy trails require caution. Fall offers golden foliage, while spring showcases peak water flow and wildflowers.
Permits and Parking: From May 23 to September 1, 2025, a timed-use permit is required for the I-84 Exit 31 parking lot (9 a.m.–6 p.m.), costing $2 per vehicle and bookable two weeks in advance at Recreation.gov. Permits don’t guarantee parking, so check real-time lot capacity via ODOT’s TripCheck. Alternatively, park at Exit 28 (Bridal Veil) or Exit 35 (Ainsworth) and access the falls via the Historic Columbia River Highway, though parking there is limited. Car-free options like the Columbia Gorge Express shuttle or e-bike rentals from Bridal Veil eliminate permit hassles and let you explore nearby falls like Horsetail, Latourell, and Wahkeena.
Access and Amenities: The Multnomah Falls Lodge houses a restaurant, gift shop, and a U.S. Forest Service visitor center (open 9 a.m.–5 p.m.), staffed with volunteers from Friends of Multnomah Falls. Brochures in multiple languages and detailed trail maps are available. The lower viewing plaza and lodge are wheelchair-accessible, with an elevator to the upper level. Restrooms and potable water are on-site, but pack out all trash and keep pets leashed.
To purchase a ticket: https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10089144/ticket/10089145
Safety and Tips: The trails can be slippery, especially in winter, so wear proper hiking shoes. Bring water, snacks, and the 10 hiking essentials for longer treks. Stay on marked trails to avoid dangerous drop-offs, especially post-2017 Eagle Creek Fire, which left some areas more exposed. Don’t disturb spawning salmon in Multnomah Creek (visible in fall) or throw coins into the water.
Beyond the Falls
Multnomah Falls is a gateway to the Columbia River Gorge’s natural wonders. The Larch Mountain Trail extends six miles to the mountain’s summit for a longer backpacking option. Nearby, the Wahkeena Falls trailhead offers additional hikes, and the Historic Columbia River Highway connects to other cascades like Bridal Veil and Latourell Falls. For a deeper dive into the area’s geology, the visitor center highlights the six Grande Ronde Basalt flows visible in the falls’ cliff, a testament to 400,000 years of volcanic history.
Why Hike Multnomah Falls?
Hiking Multnomah Falls is more than a checkmark on an Oregon bucket list. It’s a chance to connect with nature, marvel at geological history, and escape the hustle of city life. Whether you’re snapping photos from Benson Bridge, catching your breath at the upper viewpoint, or exploring the waterfall-filled loop, the trails offer something for everyone. The crowds may test your patience, but the reward—a front-row seat to one of nature’s masterpieces—is worth it. Plan ahead, lace up your boots, and let Multnomah Falls inspire your next adventure.
