Columbia Gorge: Multnomah Falls E-Bike Tour & 6 Waterfalls

Summary

Ride quiet roads, hike to hidden pools, feel the spray of Oregon’s falls

You’ll roll through mossy forests on an e-bike, pausing for short hikes to six different Columbia River Gorge waterfalls including Multnomah Falls itself. Expect cool mist on your skin, local tips from your host, easy bike parking by the lodge, and time for coffee or a snack before heading back toward Portland with tired legs and a full camera roll.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you’ve got enough water?” our host asked as we adjusted our helmets in the little parking lot near Latourell Falls. I kind of laughed — it was still cool out, that early Oregon morning smell of moss and wet pavement everywhere. The e-bikes felt zippier than I expected (I’m not a regular cyclist), and after a quick map check, we rolled out onto the old highway. There’s something about gliding under those tall trees with no car noise — just bird calls, a little wind in your ears, and that faint earthy chill. Our guide (well, more like our local point-person) waved us off with a grin and a “don’t miss Wahkeena!” so we didn’t.

The first stop was Latourell Falls — you hear it before you see it. That low roar gets louder as you walk up the short trail. I stuck my hand out into the spray near the base and instantly regretted not bringing gloves (cold!). Someone nearby was trying to take a selfie but kept getting their lens misted over; we all laughed about it. After that, each waterfall had its own vibe: Shepperds Dell was quieter except for one couple wading in up to their knees; Bridal Veil had these wildflowers growing along the path that smelled sweet but also kind of sharp? Hard to describe unless you’re there.

Multnomah Falls is where most people seem to gather — there’s this hum of voices in every language under the bridge. We locked up right by the plaza (VIP parking for bikes is real), skipped some line of car folks waiting for spots, and went straight up to the viewing area. The waterfall is huge — like, you think you know what 600 feet looks like but then you look up and your neck hurts. We grabbed coffee at the old lodge (the inside smells like wood smoke and cinnamon rolls) and just sat for a bit watching people pose with their dogs or try to pronounce “Wahkeena.” Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin — probably butchered it.

On the way back we hit Horsetail Falls (smaller but loud), and I realized my shoes were soaked from standing too close earlier. Didn’t care though — that’s part of it, right? By then my legs were tired but not dead thanks to the e-bike boost. The ride back felt slower somehow; maybe because I didn’t want it to end yet. Even now if I close my eyes I can picture that green light filtering through leaves above us on those last few turns.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — E-bike tour to six waterfalls

• Pick up e-bike and helmet
• Ride to Multnomah Falls
• Use bike locks near Multnomah Falls plaza
• Explore Multnomah Falls and lodge
• Hike 2/3 mile to secluded waterfall
• Swim at secluded waterfall
• Visit large 190-foot waterfall
• Swim at large waterfall swimming hole
• Hike to Wahkeena Falls bridge
• See small Horsetail Falls
• Visit Latourell Falls and enjoy waterfall shower

Top questions

How long does the Multnomah Falls e-bike tour take?

The self-guided e-bike tour lasts about 3.5 hours total.

How many waterfalls do you see on this Columbia Gorge bike route?

You’ll visit six waterfalls along the scenic corridor including Multnomah Falls.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included but there are snacks available at Multnomah Falls Lodge.

What age do you need to be for these e-bikes?

You must be at least 16 years old per Oregon state law to ride an e-bike.

Are helmets provided with the bike rental?

Yes, helmets are included along with your e-bike rental.

Do I need to bring anything special?

You should bring water, snacks if you want them, sunglasses, athletic shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is there someone onsite if I have questions or problems?

Yes, there’s an onsite host who can help answer questions or assist as needed.

Can I park my bike easily at Multnomah Falls?

Yes—there are dedicated bike racks just 20 feet from Multnomah Falls plaza for easy parking.

What’s included

Your day includes an e-bike fitted to your height, helmet and lock, digital guide with mapped routes between all six waterfalls including VIP bike parking at Multnomah Falls plaza, plus support from an onsite host if you need help along the way.