Multnomah Falls
Washington • 620 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
870 ft
About Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls in Washington is a dramatic two-tiered cascade plunging a total of about 620 feet, set into the rugged landscape of the Columbia River Gorge on the Colville Reservation. The falls sit on land with the owner listed as DESG and are managed by tribal authorities (Manager: TRIB) under the reservation’s designation (TRIBL). Its impressive vertical drop and accessible viewpoints make it an appealing stop for hikers and sightseers looking for a memorable waterfall experience off the beaten path. The approach rewards moderate effort with sweeping gorge vistas and close-up views of the tiers. While the lower viewing platform provides an easy, family-friendly vantage, continuing up the trail delivers a more immersive perspective of the falls and the surrounding forested canyon. This combination of accessibility and scenic payoff makes Multnomah Falls a worthwhile destination for a half-day outing or a day hike in the area.
The Setting
Multnomah Falls sits at 1,168 feet within Colville Reservation, fed by the Sanpoil River, in the foothills of Washington. At 620 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Washington.
Height: 620 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 870 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to the top of Multnomah Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 870 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The path is well-maintained and uses several switchbacks to climb the gorge, offering a steady but manageable ascent; the lower viewing platform is easily reachable for those wanting a shorter outing, while hikers who press on to the top are rewarded with broader views of the cascade and canyon. Trail surface, grade class, and USFS trail numbers are not provided for this route, so expect typical natural tread and built switchbacks consistent with maintained waterfall trails in the region.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 620 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Multnomah Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $2.00
Permit required
A timed entry permit is required during peak seasons (typically May through September). Permits can be obtained online in advance.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Multnomah Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest flow, but the site is beautiful year-round. Winter visits may offer a chance to see the falls partially frozen.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during winter. Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls. Be cautious of falling debris and crowded conditions.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 15.4 miles away
39 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.24 ft
Water depth at gauge
67°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a refreshing 67 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SANPOIL RIVER ABOVE JACK CREEK AT KELLER, WA (25 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
42 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
41 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
38 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
34 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
34 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
29 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
26 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Nespelem Community hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Multnomah Falls is located off Interstate 84 in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, approximately 30 miles east of Portland, Oregon. Visitors can access the falls from the Multnomah Falls Lodge parking area or via the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Multnomah Falls Lodge parking lot, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Overflow parking may be available nearby, and shuttle services are sometimes offered.
Elevation
1,168 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.126870° N, -119.019518° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes if hiking to the top, and bring water. Check for any trail closures or restrictions before visiting.
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With 2.4 miles and 870 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
SPRING CANYON GROUP SITE
13.9 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Spring Canyon Group Site is perfect for large families and groups of boaters or fishermen. Located on the shoreline of Lake Roosevelt, it offers ample opportunity to get out on the water or relax on the beach and take in the gorgeous lakeside scenery. The 130-mile long lake is a feature of the Columbia River created by the nearby Grand Coulee Dam. The lake is named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and is part of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, managed by the National Pa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, such as Horsetail Falls and Wahkeena Falls, are located nearby. The Historic Columbia River Highway offers scenic drives and viewpoints.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot birds, deer, and other wildlife in the surrounding forested area.
Cities near Multnomah Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Multnomah Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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