Visiting Multnomah Falls in Winter

If you've only seen Multnomah Falls in summer, you've only seen half the magic. Visiting in winter is a completely different experience — fewer crowds, dramatic frozen edges, moody fog, and a quiet, almost cinematic stillness.

Why Winter Is One of the Best Times

Summer brings hot weather, packed lots, and the timed-use permit. Winter strips all of that away — you'll often have Benson Bridge nearly to yourself. And when temperatures drop below freezing for several days, the lower tier sometimes forms an enormous frozen cone of ice with ribbons of water still cascading behind it.

What the Weather Is Really Like

The Gorge has its own microclimate. Expect temperatures between 30°F and 45°F from December through February, plus:

• Rain — lots of it.
• Mist and fog, often dramatic.
• Black ice, especially on the path to Benson Bridge.
• Snow, less common at falls level but possible.
• East winds that drop the wind chill significantly.

The upside: rain and snowmelt mean the falls run at full, thundering volume.

What to Wear

Dress in layers: a waterproof shell, a warm mid-layer, waterproof shoes with good tread, a beanie and gloves, and optional microspikes if you'll hike to Benson Bridge on ice. Skip cotton — once wet, it stays wet.

Getting There in Winter

The drive from Portland is about 30 minutes via I-84. The scenic Historic Highway (US-30) can close without much notice due to ice or downed trees — always check ODOT TripCheck. If you don't have all-wheel drive or ice-driving experience, consider a Waterfall Shuttle tour: we drive the Gorge daily and know which pullouts are safe.

Do You Still Need a Permit in Winter?

No — the timed-use permit is only required during the summer season. In winter you can show up whenever you like, and parking is far easier from November through March.

What to Do Once You're There

Walk up to Benson Bridge, hike higher if conditions allow (use caution on ice), visit nearby Wahkeena, Bridal Veil, Latourell, and Horsetail Falls, and warm up at the historic lodge.

Winter Photography Tips

Overcast skies give soft, even light with no harsh shadows. Bring a microfiber cloth for your lens and a small tripod for silky long exposures.

Plan the Easy Way

The variables — weather, road closures, ice, short daylight — add up fast. Our small-group winter tours handle every detail: a warm vehicle, expert guides, and multiple waterfalls in one trip. Book a Waterfall Shuttle tour and see the falls at their winter best, without the stress.