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The Columbia River Gorge, explained

Local guides to Multnomah Falls — permits, parking, seasons, and the stories behind Oregon's most famous waterfall.

Do You Need a Permit to Visit Multnomah Falls?

Do You Need a Permit to Visit Multnomah Falls?

During the busy summer season, Multnomah Falls requires a timed-use permit to drive into the main area — but there are several ways around it. Here's what to know before you go.

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Where to Stay Near Multnomah Falls

Where to Stay Near Multnomah Falls

There's no hotel right at the waterfall, but the Columbia River Gorge offers great lodging within easy reach — from Troutdale and Hood River to Cascade Locks and Portland.

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Are Drones Allowed at Multnomah Falls?

Are Drones Allowed at Multnomah Falls?

The short answer is no. Recreational and commercial drone flights aren't permitted at Multnomah Falls. Here's why — and where you can legally fly in the Gorge.

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Hiking to the Top of Multnomah Falls: Trail Guide

Hiking to the Top of Multnomah Falls: Trail Guide

Yes, you can hike to the top. It's about 1.2 miles one way up a paved switchback trail, rewarding you with a view straight down the 620-foot cascade.

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How Much Does It Cost to Visit Multnomah Falls?

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Multnomah Falls?

Multnomah Falls is free to enter — but parking, the $2 summer permit, and food are where most visitors get tripped up. Here's a complete cost breakdown.

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The Historic Columbia River Highway: A Complete Guide

The Historic Columbia River Highway: A Complete Guide

Often called 'the King of Roads,' this 75-mile route is one of America's most scenic drives — and the best way to experience Oregon's waterfalls in a single day.

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Can You Swim at Multnomah Falls?

Can You Swim at Multnomah Falls?

The pool looks inviting, but swimming and wading are prohibited at Multnomah Falls — for some very real safety reasons. Here's where you can legally swim in the Gorge.

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How Tall Is Multnomah Falls?

How Tall Is Multnomah Falls?

Multnomah Falls stands 620 feet tall in two tiers — the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Here's the geology, history, and what makes it so impressive.

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Multnomah Falls Parking Guide

Multnomah Falls Parking Guide

Getting to Multnomah Falls is easy — parking is the hard part. Here's where to park, when the lots fill, the permit rules, and how to skip the whole thing.

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How to Avoid Crowds at Multnomah Falls

How to Avoid Crowds at Multnomah Falls

The heaviest crowds arrive between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. With a little planning — and a few local secrets — you can have this magical place nearly to yourself.

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Visiting Multnomah Falls in Winter

Visiting Multnomah Falls in Winter

Fewer crowds, dramatic frozen edges, and moody fog rolling through the Gorge. For many locals, winter is the best time to visit Multnomah Falls.

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Visiting Multnomah Falls in Fall

Visiting Multnomah Falls in Fall

Summer crowds thin out, the maples turn gold and crimson, and salmon push upstream. Many locals will tell you fall is the secret season in the Gorge.

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Ready when you are.

No permits to chase, no parking to fight. Just a beautiful day in the Gorge.