Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Multnomah Falls: Oregon's Towering Year-Round Double Cascade
Corbett, Oregon, United States
By the Wicked Cool Places editors · Published · Updated
Why it’s cool
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 -foot drop of Multnomah Falls. Unlike many of its counterparts in the Pacific Northwest 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. Similar spring-fed systems can be found at Manatee Springs State Park.
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.
Other sites with deep indigenous history include Mesa Verde National Park. 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 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 .-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 miles east of Portland, the falls are easily accessible via I-. Most visitors use the left-hand parking area at exit , which connects to the falls via a pedestrian tunnel.
For a more leisurely approach, take exit 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.
Questions worth answering
Does the waterfall dry up in the summer?
It doesn't vanish when the heat hits. An underground spring and mountain snowmelt keep the water moving through all four seasons.
What's the best way to see the upper and lower sections?
The Benson Bridge is the spot for that. It sits right over the mist between the two levels of the cascade.
Can we hike to the top of the falls?
A paved path runs 1.2 miles up to the crest. If you've got more energy, the trail continues another six miles toward Larch Mountain.
Do we need to plan the visit in advance?
You'll need a reservation before you show up. The Forest Service manages the site and requires these bookings for entry.
More in Pacific Northwest
All Pacific Northwest places →
Crater Lake
Crater Lake, Oregon
It's the deepest lake in the country, and it sits inside the ruins of a mountain that blew itself apart. Snowmelt and rain filled the caldera over centuries, leaving water so clear and deep it turns a blue that photographs never quite believe.
Devils Tower
Devils Tower, Wyoming
This striking stone monolith holds the distinction of being the first National Monument in the United States, blending enigmatic geology with powerful indigenous folklore.
The Grotto
Portland, Oregon
Spanning 62 acres, this serene Catholic shrine blends spiritual architecture with lush botanical gardens, offering a peaceful retreat carved directly into a towering basalt cliff.