How to Get to Multnomah Falls and Where to Park!? (5 Options)

Multnomah Falls is one of Oregon’s most iconic natural wonders, drawing visitors from all over.

Which means getting there and finding a place to park can be a bit of a hassle.

Don’t worry, though! Here are the best tips for parking at Multnomah Falls and choosing the best option to explore!

1. Parking at Multnomah Falls

If you drive yourself and want to park AT Multnomah Falls, there are two lots:

Closest Parking Lot

The small lot across the street from Multnomah Falls Lodge fits about 50 cars and is the prime spot if you’re lucky enough to snag a space.

The best part? No permit is needed (more on this in a sec).

The not-so-great part? It fills up fast, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

The other not-so-great part? Parking here used to be FREE, but new rules have the spaces going for $5-$20, depending on the day and time!

Larger Parking Lot

If you can’t find a spot in the small lot, head to the larger lots at Junction 31, just off I-84. These lots are significantly bigger but still get crowded, especially in the summer.

You’ll need a timed use permit from late May to early September.

These permits cost $2 per car and can be reserved up to 14 days in advance. If you’re feeling spontaneous, same-day permits are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Quick Tips:

• Arrive early to secure a spot.
• Have your permit ready if visiting during peak times.
• There’s a one-hour grace period for your reservation, so don’t be late!
• Here is the large lot, here is the small lot.
• You could walk to Wahkeena Falls from this parking lot, but none of the other waterfalls in the area. You’d have to drive and repark, which can be a pain in this area, trust us!

2. Shuttle Service

The Multnomah Falls Shuttle is a great option for a hassle-free visit.

This shuttle service offers comfortable rides for up to 14 people, with front-row parking spots reserved at each stop, so you spend more time exploring and less time parking.

This also means you’re not only stopping at Multnomah Falls, but the shuttle stops at five other waterfalls and the Crown Point Vista House, with plenty of opportunities to hop out and hike around.

It’s a half-day trip chasing waterfalls, with no parking dramas or permits involved!

Highlights:

• Dedicated front-row shuttle parking at all stops.
• Passionate tour guides to enhance your experience.
• SIX waterfalls in a half day!
• There’s a sunset shuttle option.
• There’s a convenient meeting point, so you don’t have to worry about parking at Multnomah.

3. E-Biking

For the adventurous types, e-biking is a fantastic way to explore the Columbia River Gorge.

Multiple self-guided tour options are available, ranging from a quick 2-hour tour to a full-day adventure.

These tours include high-quality e-bikes with upgraded seats and accessories, free secure parking, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Oh, and not to mention, no permits or parking spot chasing is needed with this option either.

Highlights:

• Enjoy the scenic views and fresh air of the Historic Columbia River Highway.
• Choose from 3 waterfalls (2 hours) or up to 8 waterfalls (8 hours)!
• Self-guided so you can cruise at your own pace and tackle as many waterfalls as you want.
• There’s a convenient meeting point, so you don’t have to worry about parking at Multnomah.

4. Bus Service

Taking a bus is another straightforward way to reach Multnomah Falls.

Check here for schedules and routes. It’s an affordable choice, and the best part is you won’t have to worry about parking at Multnomah!

5. Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also viable options.

They’re convenient, especially if you don’t want to drive or deal with parking (which you kinda don’t, if you haven’t gotten the hint yet!)

It can run you anywhere from $50-$100 one way from Portland, which isn’t too bad if split with friends, but it just gets you to the ONE waterfall, and then you’re kind of stranded.

Sooo How to Get to Multnomah Falls?!

Which is the best option for you? If you must drive, scroll back up, get your permit, and read our tips!

The shuttle and e-bike options are great for avoiding parking hassles and getting bonus waterfalls and sights WITHOUT having to repark.

Busing and ride-sharing work but are a bit less convenient, and you’ll see less.

If you’re coming all the way out here, you’ve got to see more than just Multnomah Falls. There are TONS of waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge worth checking out.

Driving is fine if you’re willing to deal with the parking situation at Multnomah and the rest of the (very small and crowded) parking lots at the other falls.

Otherwise, head on out in a shuttle or on an e-bike!

We hope this helped you choose the best option to get to Multnomah Falls!

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