Multnomah Falls to Sherrard Point via Larch Mountain Trail

This is a roughly 14.2-mile out-and-back from Multnomah Falls' lower viewing platform to Sherrard Point on Larch Mountain, returning along Larch Mountain Trail #441 and the short summit spur. Trail #441 runs 6.8 miles to Larch Mountain Day Use, followed by a 0.3-mile spur to Sherrard Point; with nearly 4,000 feet of climbing, this is a full-day hike, not an extension of a quick waterfall stop. Allow about 9–11 hours with views and pauses. I’d choose it when you want a long climb through several kinds of Gorge terrain. If you only want the famous falls, turn back at the upper falls overlook instead.

You start on steps from the lower falls platform to Benson Bridge, then climb steep paved switchbacks along the east side of the falls. The first mile is busy around the upper falls overlook. At the lower viewing platform, step back until both drops and Benson Bridge fit in the frame; the bridge gives the waterfall a useful sense of scale.

Above the overlook, the path follows Multnomah Creek through a narrow, green canyon. For about three miles, expect rocky, creek-worn tread, a creek-washed rock overhang, a steel bridge at the Wahkeena junction, and several waterfalls: Dutchman, Wiesendanger, and Ecola, with views back toward Multnomah Falls. The crowds thin after the overlook, and the route gets quieter and more uneven. In spring, the creek can flood parts of the tread and soak your feet. Simon Benson donated the Falls land and helped fund the bridge that bears his name.

The trail crosses Multnomah Basin Road near a junction, then crosses the East and West Forks before the sustained climb. The lower ridge still shows the Eagle Creek Fire burn: standing snags, open talus, and long views through the bare stretches. Higher up, the route enters old-growth forest, where the path can be boggy among silver fir. The 4,000-foot gain is spread across a long route, but this is still a demanding climb and a steep descent back to the falls. Follow #441; continuing on Oneonta and Multnomah Creek Way makes a separate loop and is not part of this out-and-back.

At Larch Mountain Day Use, cross the parking aisle to the short paved Sherrard Point Trail #443. The top ends at a volcanic plug above a crater meadow and tarn; on a clear day you can pick out Rainier, St. Helens, Adams, Hood, and Jefferson. It is an exposed final viewpoint and the reward for the upper climb.

The Lodge at the starting access has a restaurant and shop; the upper day-use area has a picnic area and restroom, but there are no services to count on along the creek. Dogs are allowed; keep them leashed through the lower falls section. The upper trail is snow-dependent. During the annual summer timed-entry season, check the current permit dates before you drive. Park at the Multnomah Falls lot at I-84 Exit 31, then walk through the Lodge area to the lower viewing platform.