Multnomah Falls (I-84) Timed Use Permit
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permit provides access for one private vehicle and for its occupants visiting the Multnomah Falls Lodge and area via Interstate 84, Exit 31. The Multnomah Falls (I-84) Timed Use Permit is only valid when visiting Multnomah Falls via Exit 31. The permit check-in location is on the walkway between the parking lot and Multnomah Falls.
From May 26 through September 4, reservations will be available on an hourly basis from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A Timed Use Permit reservation does not guarantee parking. Visit the Oregon Department of Transportation TripCheck webpage to see updated images of the Exit 31 parking area (click I-84, then Multnomah Falls Parking).
Because the Historic Columbia River Highway becomes extremely congested in the summer and parking is limited, it is recommended that visitors use the I-84, Exit 31 option when going to Multnomah Falls.
Multnomah Falls is one of the most visited natural recreation sites in the Pacific Northwest with more than 1.2 million visitors stopping by each year to take in the views. Fed by underground springs from Larch Mountain, the flow over the falls varies, but is usually highest during winter and spring. This is also one of the best places in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to study geology exposed by floods.
When are Permits Required?
- Timed Use Permits will be required between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily from May 26 through September 4, 2023.
Reservation Limit
- Visitors may purchase two Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permits per day.
If you are a tour operator with questions please reach out to the US Forest Service at (541) 308-1700 for more information.
A limited number of permits will be available for pickup without a fee at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center in Troutdale and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum.
Timed use permits will not be required on the Historic Columbia River Highway/U.S. 30 in 2023. However, parking is extremely limited at the small lot along the Historic Highway/U.S. 30 at Multnomah Falls. A concessionaire will be operating this lot on a first-come, first served basis. There are six ADA parking spots at this lot for those with valid ADA placards. When the parking lot is full, vehicles will not be allowed to stop or wait for an open space.
Need to Know
- Entering the Area
Visitors arriving by private vehicle or motorcycle will be required to obtain a Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permit when parking in the (I-84) parking lot. Please check the permit descriptions to ensure you reserve the correct permit.
Timed Use Permits will be required between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily from May 26th through September 4th, 2023. Timed use permits for access to Multnomah Falls, (I-84, Exit 31) will become available two weeks prior to your visit starting May 12, 2023. Please have the printed or digital copy of your Timed Use Permit available to be checked at the check-in area. One permit is required per vehicle so be sure to carpool if you can!
- Parking
A Timed Use Permit reservation does not guarantee parking.
- Length of Stay
You may stay longer than an hour, however if you leave after your time slot you will not be allowed to re-enter using the expired permit.
- Entrance Time
Please arrive as close to your one-hour time slot as possible, starting at the time indicated on the permit. You may not enter the site prior to your reservation and your permit becomes invalid one hour after the time indicated.
- Permit Reservation Requirement
Timed Use Permits must be purchased online at Recreation.gov or using the Recreation.gov mobile app. Timed Use Permits will not be sold on-site.
Keep in mind, cell service is limited in and around Multnomah Falls and the Waterfall Corridor.
You can reserve a permit up to two weeks prior to your visit. The U.S. Forest Service office in Hood River and the Multnomah Falls Visitor Center do not have additional permits for purchase.
We recommend you book your permit in advance of traveling to the area. - Permit Reservation Limits
Visitors are allowed to purchase two Timed Use Permits per day for each tour.
- Shuttle and Transit Services
Timed Use Permits are not required if you choose to ride Sasquatch Shuttle, Gray Line Open-Air Waterfall Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley and Columbia Gorge Express Transit. By choosing one of these services, you can ensure access to Multnomah Falls, the Waterfall Corridor and the many recreation sites, viewpoints and trails without the hassle of driving and finding a parking space.
- Bicycles
Visitors arriving by bicycle will not be required to have a Timed Use Permit.
- Multnomah Falls
Access to Multnomah Falls from Interstate 84/Exit 31 parking lot will be required to obtain the Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permit. Please read permit descriptions carefully to ensure you reserve the desired permit.
- Frequently Asked Questions
For more information about the Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permit please visit ReadySetGorge.com.
Booking Windows
- Primary Booking Window: Timed Use Permits are available 14 days in advance of the day of arrival at 7 a.m. PT on a rolling daily window. Example: On May 12th, permits will be available for May 26th arrivals; on May 13th, permits will release for May 27th arrivals. Timed Use Permits will be required from May 26th through September 4th.
- Secondary Booking Window: Timed Use Permits are also available 2 days in advance at 7 a.m. PT on a rolling daily window. Example: On May 26th, permits will be available for May 28th arrivals; on May 27th, permits will be available for May 29th arrivals. Timed Use Permits will be required from May 26th through September 4th.
Changes and Cancellations
- If you are unable to attend your permit reservation, please cancel your permit to allow others the opportunity to visit Multnomah Falls Timed Use Permit area.
- If you wish to modify your permit you must do so by midnight the day of arrival.
Contact Information
Mailing Address
5300 Historic Columbia River Highway Bridal Veil OR 97010
Phone Number
541-308-1700
