Multnomah Falls
Oregon
Multnomah Falls, located on Multnomah Creek in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon, is the tallest waterfall in the state, plunging a total of 620 feet over two basalt tiers. The upper fall drops 542 feet, while the lower fall adds another 69 feet, separated by a gradual 9-foot descent. Accessible via the Historic Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84, the falls attract over two million visitors annually, making it the most-visited natural recreation site in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. The falls are fed year-round by underground springs from Larch Mountain, supplemented by seasonal snowmelt and rainfall. The iconic Multnomah Creek Bridge, built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, spans below the falls. Nearby, the Multnomah Falls Lodge, constructed in 1925, offers amenities and historical significance, also recognized on the National Register. Visitors can explore footpaths and a switchback trail leading to an observation deck overlooking the falls’ edge, providing breathtaking views. The waterfall's formation dates back approximately 15,000 years, shaped by the Missoula floods and local geology. Its cultural significance is underscored by a Native American legend of a young woman's sacrifice to save her village, from which the falls take their name. Multnomah Falls combines natural grandeur, historical architecture, and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in the Pacific Northwest.
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Tipp: For the best experience, visit Multnomah Falls during spring or early summer when water flow is highest and the surrounding greenery is lush. Arrive early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially in peak tourist seasons. Tickets are not required for access, but parking can fill quickly; consider using shuttle services if available. Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the switchback trail to the upper observation deck, which offers panoramic views. No specific discounts apply, but check local visitor centers for any seasonal programs or guided tours.
Interessante Fakten
- •Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, with a total height of 620 feet (189 meters).
- •The waterfall is fed year-round by underground springs from Larch Mountain, supplemented by snowmelt and rain.
- •The Multnomah Creek Bridge below the falls was built in 1914 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- •The falls attract over two million visitors annually, making it the most-visited natural recreation site in the U.S. Pacific Northwest.
- •The waterfall formed approximately 15,000 years ago due to the Missoula floods.
Geschichte
Multnomah Falls was formed around 15,000 years ago at the end of a hanging valley, sculpted by the massive Missoula floods.
The falls were first recorded by explorers William Clark and Meriwether Lewis during their 1805 expedition through the Columbia River Gorge.
The name 'Multnomah' originates from the local Native American tribe, tied to a legend of a young woman’s sacrifice to save her people.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area was developed for tourism, including the construction of a railway stop and the 1914 Multnomah Creek Bridge.
The Multnomah Falls Lodge and surrounding pathways were built in 1925, enhancing accessibility and visitor experience, and later recognized for their historical significance.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Multnomah Falls Lodge1925
Built in 1925, the lodge provides visitor amenities including dining and information services, and is itself a historic structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Multnomah Creek Bridge1914
A historic bridge built in 1914 that spans below the falls, offering iconic views and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Upper Observation Deck
Accessible via a switchback trail, this deck overlooks the edge of the upper falls, providing panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
