May 23, 2025 - Things to Do

Multnomah Falls' timed use permits return for summer

Kale Williams

A gourp of people stand at the base of Multnomah Falls taking pictures and looking at the towering cascade. — More rules, but fewer crowds seems like a fair tradeoff. Photo: Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Multnomah Falls this summer, you'll want to bring a camera, a sense of adventure — and a mandatory timed use permit.

Why it matters: The permits are once again required at one of the Portland area's most recognizable landmarks.

Driving the news: The summer rules requiring the permits — which are intended to cut down on crowds, congestion and parking lot pandemonium — took effect Friday.

Between now and Sept. 1, showing up without a permit is a big no-no and could get you turned away.

How it works: Visitors can obtain the permits through recreation.gov.

The permit allows for arrival during a one-hour window, after which visitors can stay for as long as they like.
Yes, but: The permit does not guarantee a parking spot.

Between the lines: If you want to avoid all the fracas of driving to the falls altogether, there are plenty of options.

Hop on the Gorge Express, which runs multiple trips a day from the Gateway Transit Center in Portland.
Take one of the several tours that offer trips to the area.
Rent an e-bike in Cascade Locks and cruise to the falls on your own time.

Fun fact: You don't need a permit if you plan a visit before 9am or after 6pm.

Editor's note: This story has been corrected to reflect that the rule requiring a permit is not new (it happens every summer).

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Multnomah Falls' timed use permits return for summer

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