Multnomah Falls Lodge

The Multnomah Falls Lodge is a two-level stone-and-timber landmark at the base of Oregon’s 620-foot Multnomah Falls. It is the main indoor stop for the waterfall: the Forest Service visitor center, snack bar, gift shop and espresso counter are downstairs, with a full-service restaurant upstairs. It works well as part of the falls visit, whether you want a meal or a closer look at the building.

Portland architect Albert E. Doyle designed the Cascadian-style lodge, completed in 1925. Rough stone walls, exposed beams and broad windows give the dining room a strong sense of place; the interior is worth a look even if you only stop downstairs. The Forest Service has owned the lodge since 1939, while a private operator runs the restaurant and retail spaces. There is a quick version of the stop—coffee, a snack and a look through the visitor center—and a longer one at the upstairs restaurant.

From the I-84 parking lot, walk south beneath the interstate and railroad tracks to reach the lodge. A paved path continues to the lower falls viewing area. Benson Bridge, the close view between the two tiers, is another quarter-mile walk from there. On the bridge, the upper cascade rises above you and the lower drop falls away below. The arched span itself makes a useful foreground for scale; this is the best spot to bring both levels of the waterfall into one frame.

Use the I-84 lot as your approach; stopping or parking along Historic Columbia River Highway is not allowed. The paved approach to the visitor center has slight inclines around the lot and viewing area. Potable water is unavailable at the site, so refill before leaving the developed area if you’re continuing farther on foot. The bridge adds roughly a quarter-mile walk from the lower viewing area, so you can stop at the lodge or falls base if you’re short on walking.