Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Multnomah Falls: Oregon's Towering Year-Round Double Cascade
Corbett, Oregon, United States
This massive 611-foot double cascade flows through every season thanks to an underground spring, offering a dramatic vertical spectacle just a short drive from Portland.
The roar of falling water echoes through the Columbia River Gorge long before you see the sheer 611-foot drop of Multnomah Falls. Unlike many of its counterparts in the American West that vanish during the dry summer months, this double-tiered giant remains a permanent fixture of the Oregon landscape.
Fed by a combination of Larch Mountain snowmelt, seasonal rains, and a hidden underground spring, the water tumbles down the basalt cliffs with a consistency that has earned it a place as the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the United States.
Why It Stands Out
The falls are steeped in both geological grandeur and local lore. Native American tradition tells of the cascade’s creation as a private sanctuary for a princess, and standing at the carved rock viewing area, it is easy to see why the site feels secluded despite its popularity.
The most iconic vantage point is the Benson Bridge, a concrete span named for lumber tycoon Simon Benson. The bridge allows visitors to stand directly over the misty chasm between the upper and lower tiers, providing a visceral sense of the water's power.
Beyond the bridge, the site features a historic 1925 stone lodge. This rustic building serves as a hub for visitors, housing a restaurant and an information center.
For those who want to see the source of the flow, a 1.2-mile paved trail winds upward to the top of the falls. True backcountry enthusiasts can continue further, embarking on a six-mile trek toward the summit of Larch Mountain.
Before You Go
Located roughly 30 miles east of Portland, the falls are easily accessible via I-84. Most visitors use the left-hand parking area at exit 31, which connects to the falls via a pedestrian tunnel.
For a more leisurely approach, take exit 28 to follow the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway, which passes several other notable cascades along the way. Note that the site is managed by the USDA Forest Service and currently requires advance reservations for entry.
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