The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area announces a timed use permit will be required for visitors using their private vehicles in the I-84 (Exit 31) Multnomah Falls parking lot between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 22 through September 7 of this year. The purpose of the permit system is to help reduce vehicle congestion, increase safety and improve overall visitor experience.
Timed use permits are currently available online at Recreation.gov for a $2 transaction fee per vehicle. Permits will be released two weeks prior to the visit date. There will also be a limited amount of in-person, same-day permits (no fee) at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center in Troutdale and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum.
Each permit lists a one-hour time slot in which you can arrive and then stay for as long as you would like that day. A timed use permit does not guarantee parking.
Options for visiting Multnomah Falls without a permit:
- Leave your car at home and take public transit offered by Columbia Area Transit (CAT), including service from Gateway Transit Center in Portland, Cascade Locks, and Hood River. Please visit their site for specific schedules:Â Columbia Area Transit
- Additional transit options in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area available through Travel Oregon:Â Travel Oregon.
- Modify the timing of your trip to before or after the permit times and peak visitation (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
- Plan your visit to Multnomah Falls prior to Memorial Day or after Labor Day, when there is less congestion.
Source: U.S. Forest Service