At a staggering 620 feet in height, Multnomah Falls beckons nearly two million visitors annually to its location along the Columbia River Gorge. Located approximately twenty miles east of Portland on I-84 (watch for the signs - it's well marked), Multnomah Falls is easily the tallest falls in Oregon, surpassing the second highest - Salt Creek Falls - by more than three hundred feet! It's also the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States. While at its best during winter and spring, this magnificent sight is spectacular to see any time of year.

Fed by the crystal clear water of underground springs originating in Larch Mountain, Multnomah Falls divides into two distinct sections as it crashes to the ground. The much taller upper falls is thinner and longer while the lower section is wider and stronger. However, the best full view of the falls is actually across the road in the parking lot (between the two sides of I-84). Then, as visitors cross the highway (through the underground tunnel), they quickly understand the magnitude of this spectacular, breath-taking waterfall.

There is a fairly easy, short hiking trail up to Benson Bridge (in the middle of the photo to the left). In 1914, Simon Benson, then owner of the falls, replaced the existing log bridge with this much wider and safer bridge, crafted by Italian stone masons. Whether looking upward to the top of the falls, or downward over the lower half of the falls (see the last picture on this page), visitors can thoroughly enjoy great views of the Columbia River and of the falls themselves from this wonderful gift of Mr. Benson.

For the more experienced hiker, or at least the more adventuresome visitor, there is a hiking trail to the top of the waterfall. This hike is long and strenuous. It's a mile long and is made up strictly of several switchbacks heading upwards at a forty-five degree angle most of the way. There are several resting points, and the view at the top is very much worth the effort. It's just very important to be prepared, with sturdy shoes and water to drink before tackling the climb.

Once visitors reach the top, they can fully enjoy the area. As if an incredible view of the Columbia River Gorge wasn't enough to make the hike worth the trip, the view of the falls from the top is simply spectacular. From the wooden platform at the top of the falls, visitors can look down over the falls, as the water flows over the edge to begin its very long descent. They can also enjoy the small mini-fall and equally small pond where the water first comes out of the woods, heading toward the edge of the cliff. It's just another wonderful view of a spectacular sight in Oregon. Plus, the hike down is a whole lot easier!

Back at the bottom, they're also encouraged to stop into the lodge before leaving the area. Inside, the U.S. Forest Service has collected every type of rock found in the Columbia River Gorge for viewing by visitors. The volunteers even share a wonderful little Indian folk tale to those who wish to hear it. There is also a gift shop with a great selection, a very nice restaurant, and a well-stocked snack shop for those in a rush to continue their trip. Whether visitors stop by Multnomah Falls for thirty minutes or three hours, they'll know they're truly in the presence of nature's beauty at its best. Enjoy!

All photos on this web site are ©2002, ©2003, ©2004, ©2005 as the exclusive property of the site designer, Julia (Harris) Ozab, and they may not be used in any form without her express written consent. If you wish to use any of the photos from this site, please contact her via e-mail at jozab@sansangnim.com.