PORTLAND, Ore. — Access to Multnomah Falls will be limited due to repairs on the Historic Columbia River Highway. The closure, which starts Oct. 1, will last until Memorial Day 2025, coinciding with a time when foot traffic typically slows.
KGW spoke with visitors about their thoughts on the changes. Many agree that while highway repairs are a priority the alterations may create confusion, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
Hiker Jaclyn, a frequent visitor, noted that the falls are a popular spot for tourists. “It’s probably going to confuse people, specifically visitors doing the historic highway to see all the waterfalls along it,” she said. “But Portlanders should have no trouble.”
During the closure, eastbound vehicles will not be able to access Multnomah Falls, with traffic being redirected at Wahkeena Falls. Some routes were already blocked, confusing first-time visitors like Meena Wagner, who traveled from Bend.
“They said it was an easy hike back. It turns out it’s a 0.6-mile hike back, and it’s up and down. The trail is rocky,” she said.
Westbound traffic can reach the Multnomah Falls Lodge but will not be able to go beyond that point. Visitors can also take public transportation or park in the Interstate 84 lot at Exit 31.
Tour guide Douglas Wright acknowledged that the detour might be confusing but not detrimental. “As long as everybody drives safely and slowly, and minds the crew directing traffic everyone will be just fine,” he said.
The closure is necessary to restore the Historic Columbia River Highway viaducts, which are over a century old. Key focuses during this time will include road resurfacing and structural reinforcement, with the route expected to reopen on Memorial Day next year.
Wright added that the timing aligns well with the colder months.
“We’ll be bringing people out to see the ice waterfalls all winter. Hopefully, people still come out and want to enjoy the waterfalls, even when it’s a little colder.”
