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Multnomah Falls

© Wayne R. Brown

I could not do a series of articles about hikes without including Multnomah Falls. It became an instant favorite when a friend and I first hiked it some seventeen or so years ago and I've been back many times since.

Multnomah Falls is situated on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge, some thirty miles east of Portland. At a combined six hundred and twenty feet for the upper and lower falls, this is the second highest, year-round waterfall in the United States.

To get to the falls, take Interstate 84 east from Portland. Take exit 31. Be aware that this is a left hand exit off the freeway. Park your car and make your way to the pedestrian tunnel that passes under the eastbound section of the freeway. Follow the paved footpath that takes you along Multnomah Creek, under the railroad tracks, across the scenic highway and to the lodge. Follow your eyes and ears and you will soon find yourself at a viewpoint that provides a wonderful, scenic view of the lower falls.

A short hike will bring you to the bridge that spans the top of the lower falls. To your left is a straight drop to the bottom of the falls. There is absolutely nothing between you and the pool some eighty or so feet below except air and the handrail. For me this has always been a thrilling, white knuckle experience. To your right is the base of the 542 foot upper falls.

Years past, I have gone so far as to brave the slippery, treacherous footing and walk out to the base of the falls and even behind them. After the recent rockfall, this is no longer allowed.

Now that you're warmed up, it's time for some real hiking. The trail to the top of the falls continues on the far side of the bridge. The hike to the top of the falls is little more than a mile. It will seem longer. It climbs almost without let through one switchback after another. Unless you're an athlete of near Olympic proportions, your calf muscles are going to be screaming for mercy before you reach the top.

It is a great relief when you finally crest a small ridge and begin walking downhill toward Multnomah Creek. You come to a fork in the path. Going right takes you to the top of the falls. If you go left you will come to where a bridge crosses the creek. I can't imagine a trip there without taking both.

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