How Much Does It Cost to Visit Multnomah Falls?

Wondering how much it costs to visit Multnomah Falls? The good news is that one of Oregon's most spectacular attractions is free to enter. But while there's no admission fee, there are a few costs worth planning for — from parking and permits to food and guided tours.

Is There an Entrance Fee?

No. Multnomah Falls sits within the Mt. Hood National Forest and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and there is no admission or gate fee. You can walk the paved path to the base, cross Benson Bridge, and soak in the view without paying a cent.

The Timed-Use Permit: $2 in Summer

During the busy season (late May through early September), the Forest Service requires a timed-use permit to access the area between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The permit costs $2 per vehicle through Recreation.gov. The catch is availability — permits sell out quickly, often days in advance.

Parking Costs

Parking itself is free, but spaces are extremely limited. The main I-84 lot fills well before mid-morning in peak season, and when it's full there's no overflow. A one-way rideshare from downtown can run $50 to $80 each way, making it an expensive workaround.

Food and Dining

The historic lodge offers a sit-down restaurant and espresso bar, with entrees generally $15 to $30. Packing a picnic is free, and nearby Hood River and Gresham offer excellent breweries and restaurants at a range of price points.

Guided Tours: What You Get

A guided tour bundles everything into one price — typically $50 to $120 per person depending on length. The value is in what's handled for you: round-trip transportation, a driver-guide who knows the Gorge, permit logistics, and visits to multiple waterfalls in one trip. For families or out-of-town visitors, it often works out cheaper than rideshare plus parking time plus the risk of being turned away.

The Bottom Line

Multnomah Falls is free to see — but the practical costs (a $2 summer permit you must reserve ahead, scarce parking, gas and time) are where most visitors get tripped up. Book a Waterfall Shuttle tour and we'll handle the logistics: one price, multiple waterfalls, zero stress.