Day trip from Portland: Columbia River Gorge & Multnomah Falls
Yes — Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge are an easy day trip from The Ritz-Carlton, Portland. Expect a roughly 30–45 minute drive each way and plan for a short paved walk to the Benson Bridge viewpoint at Multnomah Falls.
In this guide
Getting there from The Ritz-Carlton, Portland
The Ritz-Carlton, Portland sits in downtown Portland at 900 SW Washington Street. Most guests drive or take a taxi/rideshare east on I-84 to reach the Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls in about 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic.
The hotel concierge can help arrange taxis, private cars, or guided tours. There is no on-site shuttle to the airport, and the property does not list an organized shuttle specifically to Gorge attractions.
- Drive time to Multnomah Falls: about 30–45 minutes (varies by traffic)
- Ask Concierge for recommended routes, parking tips, or a guided excursion
- Allow extra time on summer weekends and holiday mornings for heavier traffic
Multnomah Falls — what to expect
Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall and a focal point of the Historic Columbia River Highway. A paved 0.2-mile path leads to the Benson Bridge viewpoint where you can view the falls from mid-height.
The area is heavily visited in peak seasons. Parking at the Falls tends to fill early on summer weekends; many visitors combine the Falls with other Gorge stops along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
- Short paved walk (Benson Bridge viewpoint) from the main parking area
- Expect crowds during summer and shoulder-season weekends
- Trail options exist above and below Benson Bridge for those with more time and mobility
Other Columbia River Gorge highlights to add
The Gorge is a National Scenic Area with dozens of waterfalls along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Popular stops beyond Multnomah include smaller falls and viewpoints that are reachable by car with short walks.
Hood River and the transition from lush forest to high desert lie further east if you want to extend the day trip; Hood River is a longer drive and may be better as a half-day or separate day trip.
- Scenic viewpoints and short waterfall hikes along the Historic Columbia River Highway
- Hood River is farther east and often visited on longer Gorge itineraries
- Plan stops to suit how much driving versus time outdoors you prefer
Suggested half-day itinerary
This sample plan assumes you leave mid-morning and return to downtown Portland in the afternoon, letting you enjoy key Gorge viewpoints without rushing.
Adjust timing for seasons, traffic, and how many short hikes you want to do.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30–9:00 AM | Depart The Ritz-Carlton, Portland |
| 9:00–9:45 AM | Arrive at Multnomah Falls; visit Benson Bridge viewpoint |
| 10:15–12:00 PM | Drive and stop at one or two nearby Gorge viewpoints or short waterfall walks |
| 12:30–2:00 PM | Lunch in Hood River or return toward Portland for dining |
| 2:30–3:30 PM | Return to The Ritz-Carlton, Portland |
Practical tips — parking, timing, and season
Parking at Multnomah Falls can be limited during peak season; arrive early or consider a Gorge tour that includes parking. Roads in the Gorge can be busy on sunny weekends.
Summer (June–September) is the warmest, driest period and the busiest for Gorge visits. Winter is quieter and wetter; check road conditions before you go if weather is poor.
- Bring layers and waterproof footwear when visiting falls — mist can make paths wet
- Carry water and snacks for short walks; many roadside stops have limited services
- If you have limited mobility, stick to the paved Benson Bridge path
Return to downtown — dining and relaxation at the hotel
After the drive back, The Ritz-Carlton, Portland offers options to relax and dine. Bellpine on the 20th floor serves Pacific Northwest cuisine with Mexican-inspired influences and has brunch and dinner service hours.
The hotel spa and the Hidden Mountain Lake Infinity Pool on the 19th floor are available for recovery and relaxation after a day of walking and driving. The concierge can help with spa appointments and restaurant reservations.
- Bellpine: Brunch daily 7:00 AM–3:00 PM; dinner service hours available — reservations recommended
- Pool: Hidden Mountain Lake Infinity Pool on the 19th floor (open daily)
- Spa: The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Portland — appointments required; check spa hours with the concierge
Which room to choose if you’re planning day trips
Rooms with city views make it easy to return, refresh, and see downtown from the room. The hotel offers room types such as Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed and Executive Room, 1 Bedroom that may suit differing needs for space and Club Lounge access.
If you prefer evening snacks or small meals on return, consider Club-level options; the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge on the 20th floor provides five daily culinary and beverage presentations for guests with access.
- Deluxe Room (Club Lounge Access) — includes Club Lounge benefits when booked with that room type
- Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed or Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds — standard downtown guest rooms with city views
- Executive Room, 1 Bedroom — more space for families or guests returning from a day out
