Multnomah Creek

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Multnomah Creek Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
Rating:
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Difficulty:3C II (v3a4 II)
Raps:‌2-5, max ↨60ft
Metric
Overall: ⟷3mi
Approach: ↑1600ft
Descent: ⟷0.4mi ↓295ft
Exit: ↓1110ft
Red Tape:No permit required
Shuttle:
Vehicle:Passenger
Location:
Condition Reports:

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Weather:
Best season:
July-Sep (avg for this region)
winterspringsummerfall
DecJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNov
Regions:


Welcome! Canyons in the Pacific Northwest can be different from those you might be used to. Be ready for unlinked bolts, retrievable traverse lines, and challenging aquatic environments. For more on local practices, and the best way to get started in the region, check out the WCC Safety page.
  • Unlinked Bolts - groups should be comfortable rigging unlinked bolts, either temporarily linking them for all but the last person, or using a passive redundancy method. Most importantly, if you find two bolts side by side that are unlinked, do not add webbing to them. Linking bolts designed to be unlinked will likely cause damage during seasonal floods.
  • Traverse Lines - many canyons are rigged to allow traverse line access to an exposed anchor station. This should be done using self-belay or team belay techniques. Do not leave fixed lines in the canyons.
  • Challenging Environments - the highly aquatic nature of PNW canyons can surprise many. Cold temperatures, slippery rocks, loud waterfalls, and strong currents all lead to unexpected problems. Do not underestimate the need for strong team work and technical proficiency. Belays are frequently not possible. Unattended gear will sink or float away. Sliding and jumping is the cause of most major injuries, so it's critical to effectively communicating water depth & submerged hazards.

Introduction[edit]

Multnomah Falls is the highest waterfall in Oregon and reaches the towering height of 620 ft. Unfortunately, rappelling or climbing Multnomah Falls is forbidden, but several scenic waterfalls lie upstream. Since most of the falls are visible from the trail, it is recommended to use retrievable anchors (or remove webbing afterwards). This creek is not run with any frequency.

Approach[edit]

Descent[edit]

R1: 60'. DCR - tree (Ecola Falls)

R2: DCL - large tree about 20 ft away from the lip. There are no good anchors near the lip of the waterfall (Weisendanger Falls)

There are several waterfalls further downstream that appear to be no longer than 15-20 ft. They can be down climbed if the water flow is not too high. Exit back to trail when convenient and prior to Multnomah Falls.

Exit[edit]

Red tape[edit]

Multnomah Creek is one of the most popular trails in the Columbia Gorge. Be aware: unlike other parts of the country, canyoning is not widely known or recognized in the Pacific NW. Individuals climbing, rappelling, or slack-lining around such "show waterfalls" are far more likely to garner negative reactions from the general public at large. Negative reactions can lead to complaints and more rules by the local authorities. If you must descend this creek, locals suggest descending when the number of hikers will be low - e.g. early in the morning or on weekdays. Please be scrupulous about following a Leave-No-Trace ethic. Leaving brightly colored anchors can annoy waterfall photographers, irk land managers, and may encourage the inexperienced / unprepared to attempt to follow you.

  • Rappelling is not permitted on Multnomah Falls - except for Portland Mountain Rescue as part of their annual cleanup effort.

Beta sites[edit]

Trip reports and media[edit]

Background[edit]

Credits

Information provided by automated processes. KML map by (unknown). Authors are listed in chronological order.

In all habitats live animals and plants that deserve respect, please minimize impact on the environment and observe the local ethics. Canyoneering, Canyoning, Caving and other activities described in this site are inherently dangerous. Reliance on the information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. There is no warranty as to accuracy, timeliness or completeness of the information provided on this site. The site administrators and all the contributing authors expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss or injury caused, in whole or in part, by its actions, omissions, or negligence in procuring, compiling or providing information through this site, including without limitation, liability with respect to any use of the information contained herein. If you notice any omission or mistakes, please contribute your knowledge (more information).