Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland — Multnomah, Latourell & Vista House
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable walking short distances and climbing stairs.
Overview
A brisk, three-hour shuttle from Portland takes you into the heart of the Columbia River Gorge to stand under Multnomah Falls’ spray, peer out from Vista House, and walk a short forest trail to Latourell’s basalt face. This guided tour blends roadside engineering history with up-close waterfall experiences.
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland — Multnomah, Latourell & Vista House
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The tour begins before the shuttle pulls away from a downtown Portland curb: the city slips behind you and the road climbs, the Columbia River widening like a silver promise. Within minutes the highway leans into basalt cliffs and the air sharpens with the smell of wet stone and cedar. Water announces itself first as a distant hiss, then as the full, unapologetic drop of a fall — Multnomah’s twin curtains tumbling into the moss-dark amphitheater below.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Expect light walking
Stops include short paved or well-maintained trails (typically 0.2–0.6 miles) and some stairs; bring grippy shoes.
Bring a rain shell
Mist from the falls and sudden showers are common—waterproof outerwear will keep you comfortable.
Arrive hungry for cookies
The lodge at Multnomah Falls sells large cookies and snacks—good for a quick energy boost between stops.
Plan for crowds
Midday is busiest; aim for morning or late afternoon departures to avoid tour and site congestion.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- bald eagle
- black-tailed deer
History
The Historic Columbia River Highway (completed early 1920s) was designed to showcase scenic viewpoints; Vista House was built in 1917 as a rest stop and observatory for travelers.
Conservation
This section of the gorge lies in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area; stay on trails, pack out waste, and avoid introducing invasive plants to protect fragile riparian zones.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof shell
Protects against waterfall spray and Pacific Northwest rain.
Sturdy walking shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good tread help on wet stairs and muddy patches.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated between stops; bottled water is provided but refills reduce waste.
Compact camera or smartphone with lens cloth
Carry a lens cloth—the spray will fog lenses quickly for waterfall shots.