Visitor planning
Plan Your Visit
Multnomah Falls is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, with over 2 million visitors every year. During peak times, the relatively small parking lot can be quickly overwhelmed, leading to logistical chaos for visitors. However, there are many ways to access the falls that don't require you to navigate this parking lot. This page lists some of the alternative options.
Timed-use permits
Parking Lot Permits
Official permit information
Timed-use permits are required for the I-84 Exit 31 parking lot from May 22 through September 7, 2026, between 9am and 6pm. Permits can include advance reservations and same-day releases, but they do not guarantee an available parking space.
Primary non-driving option
Shuttle Service
Shuttle service
Columbia Gorge Express
Scheduled public shuttle service connecting the Portland region, Troutdale, Cascade Locks, Hood River, and Multnomah Falls.
Shuttle service
Multnomah Falls Express
Park at Columbia Gorge Premium Outlets and ride an ADA-accessible double-decker shuttle to Multnomah Falls for $5 per person.
Guided visits
Guided Tours from Portland
Many tour and shuttle operators provide transportation to Multnomah Falls and other destinations in the Columbia River Gorge, allowing you to leave your car elsewhere and let someone else do the driving.
Tour operator
Gray Line of Portland
Best fit for visitors who want scheduled downtown Portland departures, full-size motorcoach comfort, and trolley-style Gorge sightseeing options.
Tour operator
Terran Travels
Offers small-group and custom guided day tours with a stronger focus on local interpretation, hiking, and broader Northwest itineraries.
Tour operator
Wildwood Adventures
Runs small-group sightseeing tours with half-day Gorge waterfall trips and longer full-day combinations that include Mt. Hood.
Tour operator
Sasquatch Adventures Shuttle Tour
A narrated 2.5-hour waterfall corridor shuttle from Troutdale with short scenic stops and extra time at Multnomah Falls.
Tour operator
Waterfall Shuttle
Offers direct Portland shuttles plus small-group half-day, sunset, and full-day waterfall tours with hotel pickup or Gresham parking.
Cycling
Bike to the Falls
Want some fresh air with your waterfall views? These options can turn the trip into a ride, with a little exercise and a lot less parking-lot orbiting.
Bike Rental
E-Bike Multnomah Falls
Self-guided e-bike routes range from quick Multnomah Falls rides to full-day waterfall adventures with maps, helmets, and locks included.
Bike Rental
Bike The Gorge
Bike and e-bike rentals based in the Gorge, with self-guided rides on the Historic Highway State Trail and longer Multnomah Falls routes.
Connections
Public Transit Connections
TriMet
Portland-area transit services can help visitors connect to Columbia Gorge Express and other transportation options.