Mar 3, 2024
Written By: J.Couch
Nestled in the heart of the lush Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls stands as a testament to the captivating beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The falls is the most-visited natural recreation site in the entire Pacific Northwest, and gets more than 20 million visitors a year. Visiting this natural wonder is not just a sightseeing venture but an immersive experience, especially when you embark on the exhilarating hike up to the iconic Multnomah Falls Bridge known as Benson Bridge that was built in 1914.
It was a rainy, cloudy, cold day in Oregon and we thought what better time than today to go out to Multnomah Falls and look around. Well in fact most days in the winter are like this and you just have to get out and go. This whole area along the gorge had a massive fire roll through here a few years back (in 2017) and one of the things that they were able to save during that time was the Multnomah Falls lodge that sits along the road and at the base of falls. It was built back in 1925 and has been a stop for many travelers along the Columbia Gorge to and from the Portland area. The lodge is on the National Register of Historic Places and is built with every type of rock found in the Columbia River Gorge. It would have been tragic if it had burned down along with many other things in that area. If you have never been to this part of Oregon it is a stop that is definitely worth your time. Take a few minutes to go through the gift shop and upstairs to have a bite to eat in their restaurant.
As you approach the lower falls and the trailhead that takes you to the top of the falls, a gentle mist from the cascading falls welcomes you to a world of towering evergreens and vibrant foliage. The ¼ of a mile trail to the bridge is well-marked and easily accessible, and promises a picturesque journey through the forested landscape. The rhythmic sound of crunching gravel beneath your hiking boots or shoes on the paved path accompanies the distant roar of the falls and/or the occasional train passing by, building anticipation with every step. The trail, adorned with ferns and moss-covered rocks and trees, gradually inclines, offering occasional glimpses of the falls through the dense foliage. As you ascend, the forest canopy transforms into a magical realm, where sunlight can filter through the towering trees, creating a play of shadows on the forest floor. However when we were there it was gray, cold and raining pretty good like it does most of the time in that area. The only thing filtering down through the trees today was the cold rain off the leaves and pine needles high above. The air was cool and crisp, and filled with the earthy fragrance of moss and damp soil, enhancing the immersive nature of the hike. There was a mist coming off the falls which made it hard to tell if it was the falls or the rain or both.
The bridge is the first stop along the way and where most people take some pictures of the falls above and pose for a picture from the ones that stayed behind way down below. The iconic bridge elegantly spans the lower part of the falls. The mist from the falls above envelopes you, heightening the sensory experience. The total height of both upper and lower falls come in at a whopping 620-foot cascade of water. It plunges dramatically into a pool below, creating a symphony of sound and movement. The bridge offers a unique perspective, allowing you to feel the powerful rush of the falls while marveling at the surrounding scenery. The cool mist and the gentle hum of the cascading water provide a refreshing break, making the effort to reach this vantage point well worth it.
If you have a little more adventure and energy, you can keep going from there and finish the mile trail that takes you up through the rainforest of the Pacific Northwest and dumps you out at the top of the 541 feet falls. If you are even more adventurous you can keep going and explore more of the Columbia Gorge. Again well worth it if you have the time to explore this area. As you stand on the bridge, surrounded by the sheer magnificence of Multnomah Falls, a profound sense of connection with nature washes over you. The experience becomes a visual and auditory symphony, with the falls as the grand conductor, orchestrating a performance that transcends the ordinary. We did not go any farther than the bridge and the bottom of the upper falls area, but in the past we have made the trip to the top. The view from above is amazing, especially if it’s a clear sunny day, and it is a great hike in itself. Maybe when we are back in this area this summer we will adventure out again to get a view from the top of the falls.
Hiking to the bridge is more than a physical journey; it’s a spiritual connection with the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest. From the enchanting forest trail to the awe-inspiring bridge, every step is a celebration of nature’s grandeur. So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the mist, and let the journey to Multnomah Falls become an unforgettable chapter in your adventure book.
Tips for the Journey
Footwear: Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good traction for the trail, but the trail to the bridge can be accomplished with a good pair of regular shoes.
Weather Preparedness: Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can become slippery during rain, ice or snow.
Hydration: Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Camera Ready: Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking moments along the way.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
