When we arrived at our hotel in Portland, our rental car was ready for our day-trip plans for a drive along the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway and Mount Hood Loop. Our only real plan was for wine tasting, along the route in Hood River, Oregon. The scenery was beautiful, especially in the fall, and the route was easy to follow with a simple hotel map. The gorge rises high above and lines the Columbia River. Along the route, there are several streams and small waterfalls, making this a wonderful sightseeing drive. We were heading east on I-84, when we saw an amazing sight. Rising high above the rocks and trees, rushes the water of Multnomah Falls. We pulled into the parking lot thinking we would take a few quick pictures and then get back on our way. We ended up staying about an hour, walking the trails and taking pictures. I could have stayed much longer. The falls are magnificent. Multnomah Falls is the second highest year-round waterfall in America. There are numerous hiking trails and paths throughout the park. It is only a short walk up the main path to reach Benson Bridge, where you can cross the falls between the upper and lower sections. Built in 1914, Benson Bridge provides a fantastic photo opportunity. There was a major drop in temperature when you walk onto the bridge. It’s only about 100 yards from this enchanting stone bridge to the parking lot, and the temperature dropped about 10 degrees. You get a real up-close look at this spectacular natural wonder.
At the base of the falls sits historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. The building is beautiful, designed and built entirely of stones. It is set perfectly with a backdrop of towering trees in company with the cascading falls. The lodge offers a beautiful view and a wonderful place to relax. We did not visit the lodge’s restaurant or patio cappuccino bar.
There were more paths and trails than we had time to explore. If I ever get back to the Portland area, I plan to spend an afternoon at Multnomah Falls.