Multnomah Falls & Columbia Gorge: Hop-On Trolley Day Pass

Summary

Open-air trolley rides, waterfall trails and stories along the Columbia River Highway

You’ll ride an open-air trolley through Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge with a local guide narrating stories as you go. Hop off for hikes at Multnomah Falls or Wahkeena Falls, snap photos from Vista House, and never worry about parking. Every moment feels unrushed — just fresh air and waterfalls all around.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost skipped the Multnomah Falls day trip because I’d heard about the parking headaches. But then I saw there was this hop-on hop-off trolley from Corbett, and honestly? That open-air thing sounded like a relief. We parked at the Crown Point museum (free, which felt like a small win), and right away our guide waved us over — she had this way of making everyone feel like we were just a bunch of friends heading out together. The first thing I noticed was how different everything smelled out here — mossy, cold air with that hint of river stone. There’s something about it that wakes you up.

The trolley rolled along the Historic Columbia River Highway, and every time we stopped — Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls — people would hop off for photos or a quick hike. At Multnomah Falls itself, it was busier than I expected (even on a weekday), but standing under that spray… well, you get why it’s famous. Our guide told us little bits of history between stops — not too much, just enough so you start noticing things you’d miss otherwise. Like how Vista House isn’t just a viewpoint; it’s kind of an old soul watching over the river. I tried to pronounce “Wahkeena” properly and Li (our driver) laughed — apparently my accent is hopeless.

We could stay as long or as little as we wanted at each stop. That felt good — no rush. The open sides of the trolley meant you caught all these tiny details: wind in your face, someone’s dog wagging at every passerby, even the way sunlight hit the wet rocks after a short rain. The whole thing moved at its own pace; sometimes people chatted quietly or just stared out at all that green. It’s funny how quickly you forget about your phone out here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hop-on hop-off waterfall trolley tour

• Board trolley at Corbett
• Visit Crown Point Museum
• Stop at Crown Point viewpoint
• See Latourell Falls
• See Bridal Veil Falls
• Stop at Angels Rest
• Visit Wahkeena Falls
• Explore Multnomah Falls
• View Triple Falls
• See Horsetail Falls
• Stop at Ainsworth State Park
• Return westbound stops in reverse order
• Disembark trolley at Corbett

Top questions

How do I join the Multnomah Falls trolley tour?

You can park for free at Crown Point Country Historical Society Museum in Corbett (36901 E. Historic Columbia River Highway) or join at Multnomah Falls if arriving by bus from Portland.

Is this waterfall trolley tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible; please give 24 hours notice if you need a lift.

How many stops does the hop-on hop-off trolley make?

The Waterfall Trolley makes nine stops along the Historic Columbia River Highway corridor.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult's lap if not using one.

Does the tour include narration or information about the area?

Yes, your day includes a narrated tour with local stories and history shared by your guide between stops.

What’s included

Your day includes free parking at Corbett’s Crown Point Museum if you’re driving in, plus unlimited rides on the open-air narrated trolley with nine possible stops along the Historic Columbia River Highway corridor — including time to explore Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Latourell Falls and Vista House at your own pace before heading back whenever you're ready.