Can You Swim at Multnomah Falls?

On a hot Oregon day, the crystal-clear pool at the base of Multnomah Falls makes jumping in sound like the obvious thing to do. Before you slip into a swimsuit, here's the full story.

The Short Answer: No

Swimming, wading, and climbing in or around the pools at Multnomah Falls are prohibited by the U.S. Forest Service. Signs make this clear, and rangers actively enforce the rule. That includes the lower pool beneath Benson Bridge, the upper pool, and the creek through the viewing area.

Why You Can't Swim

The rules exist for very real reasons. People are seriously injured at Multnomah Falls almost every year, and most accidents involve visitors who left the marked trail.

• The water is dangerously cold. Fed by snowmelt and springs, temperatures hover in the 40s even in August. Cold-water shock can cause loss of muscle control within seconds.
• Falling rocks are a constant hazard. The basalt cliffs are actively eroding — in 1995 a boulder fell from the upper falls and injured wedding guests on Benson Bridge.
• Currents are deceptive. The calm-looking pool has hidden hydraulics that have pulled strong swimmers under.
• It's a protected ecosystem. The creek supports native fish and amphibians; soap, sunscreen, and disturbed sediment all damage it.

Where You Can Actually Swim

The Gorge has incredible swimming holes that are legal and stunning:

• Punch Bowl Falls (Eagle Creek) — a basalt swimming hole; wading allowed in the lower pool.
• Rock Creek Reservoir — family-friendly with a swim beach and picnic areas.
• Government Cove (Cascade Locks) — a protected inlet with calmer water.
• Lost Lake — an alpine lake with a postcard view of Mt. Hood.
• Sandy River Delta — shallow, dog-friendly areas perfect for cooling off.

Always check current conditions — some waterways have seasonal restrictions.

Cooling Off Without Getting Wet

Even without swimming, the natural mist near Benson Bridge drops the air temperature 10 to 15 degrees. Stand on the bridge a few minutes and you'll feel the spray. The lodge has cold drinks and ice cream too.

Have the Best (Safe) Day

Combine waterfall sightseeing with a legal swim spot: an early-morning visit to Multnomah Falls, lunch at the lodge or Migration Brewing, then an afternoon swim at Lost Lake or Punch Bowl Falls. Skip the parking and permit stress — book a Waterfall Shuttle tour, and our guides will show you exactly where you can swim safely.