Sunset Tour: Multnomah Falls, Vista House & Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to walk 1–2 miles total and manage stairs.
Overview
Ride a small-group shuttle through the Columbia River Gorge to five dramatic waterfalls and finish at Crown Point’s Vista House for sunset. Reserved parking and a timed route mean fewer crowds and more prime light for photos.
Sunset Tour: Multnomah Falls, Vista House & Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
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The bus eases out of Portland as the Columbia River Gorge widens and the highway begins to cling to stone. Spray punctures the air long before you see the falls—the river seems to dare you to keep driving, to miss the curve where basalt cliffs uncork into vertical sheets of water. On this 3.5-hour sunset loop, a small-group guide times each stop so the last light finds you at Crown Point’s Vista House, where the Gorge turns into a long, colorful horizon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress for spray
Bring a light waterproof layer—spray from Multnomah and other falls can soak you quickly even on warm days.
Stairs and short climbs
Expect stairs to Benson Bridge and brief elevation changes; wear supportive shoes and plan for short bursts of uphill walking.
Timing for photos
Plan to be at Vista House at least 20 minutes before sunset for the best light and unobstructed views.
Arrive early at the meeting point
Meet at Migration Brewing 15 minutes before departure to ensure on-time boarding and your reserved spot.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles along the river
- Mule deer in forested pockets
History
The Historic Columbia River Highway and Crown Point’s Vista House were early 20th-century efforts to make the Gorge accessible by car, with Vista House completed in 1918 as a public rest stop and viewpoint.
Conservation
Heavy visitation has prompted trail maintenance, limited parking programs, and leave-no-trace signage—stick to paths and pack out trash to protect fragile riparian areas.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry from waterfall spray and changing Gorge winds.
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Sturdy walking shoes
Provides grip on wet viewing platforms and short, stair-steep sections.
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Small daypack
Holds water, layers, camera, and any snacks for the short stops.
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Camera with a wide-angle lens
For capturing the falls and the sweeping Vista House views at sunset.
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