Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is Oregon's most iconic waterfall and an absolute must-see for families visiting Portland. At 620 feet tall, this stunning two-tiered cascade offers easy viewing access right from the parking area, plus a paved path to the famous Bidge Vista overlook that's stroller-friendly and takes just 5-10 minutes. For adventurous families, the trail to the top provides a rewarding moderate hike with breathtaking views that older kids will love conquering.

• ✓Walking across the iconic Benson Bridge with waterfall spray misting overhead
• ✓Spotting rainbow prisms in the falls' mist on sunny days
• ✓Conquering the challenging but kid-doable hike to the top viewpoint for bragging rights
• ✓Exploring the historic 1925 Multnomah Falls Lodge with its stone architecture
• ✓Watching salmon spawning in Multnomah Creek during fall months

1. 1.Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM to avoid massive crowds and tour buses,parking fills up quickly mid-day, especially on weekends and summer months
2. 2.The paved path to Benson Bridge gets misty from the falls,bring light rain jackets even on sunny days and embrace getting a little wet (kids love it!)
3. 3.Stop at the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge for restrooms, snacks, and a Junior Ranger-style learning station before or after your hike
4. 4.If hiking to the top, bring plenty of water and snacks,it's 11 switchbacks up with limited shade, but benches along the way make great rest stops
5. 5.Consider taking the free Columbia Gorge Express shuttle from Portland on weekends (May-September) to avoid parking hassles entirely

Visit on weekday mornings in spring (April-May) for lighter crowds, lush greenery, and peak water flow from snowmelt. Fall (September-October) offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, while early summer mornings provide the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Parking and entry are completely free, though lots fill quickly during peak times. The historic lodge offers a cafe, gift shop, and clean restrooms. The lower viewpoint and bridge are paved and accessible, but the trail to the top involves steep switchbacks and is not stroller-friendly.

Open year-round, though winter can bring ice on trails and occasional closures due to severe weather. Spring offers peak water flow, while fall features salmon runs and colorful foliage. Summer weekends are extremely crowded. The Columbia Gorge can experience sudden weather changes, so dress in layers any season.

The Multnomah Falls Lodge Restaurant offers casual dining with kid favorites like burgers and sandwiches (often crowded). For more options, head 15 minutes west to Troutdale where you'll find McMenamins Edgefield with expansive grounds for kids to roam and a family-friendly pub menu, or continue to downtown Portland's food cart pods for endless variety.