Multnomah: Water Landscapes, Trails, and Culture

In Multnomah County, the landscape ranges from a spring-fed lake and wetlands to trails, waterfalls, and cultural sites. These different highlights can help you decide which experiences you want to shape your stay.

Water, Trails, and Wildlife Habitats

The namesake lake in Blue Lake Regional Park is fed by underground springs. Several miles of trails wind through wooded picnic areas and wetlands; the trail network also leads to the Nichàqwli Monument. The park also has a Gold-level 18-hole disc golf course. The lake, trails, monument, and sports facilities show different sides of the same park.

On the Columbia River, Chinook Landing Marine Park has six boat-launch ramps. The park also includes wetlands and wildlife habitats. Visitors who want to get their bearings in advance can also find accessible piers there. The launch ramps and piers are practical visitor details; the natural habitats give the site a different character as well.

On Sauvie Island, the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area protects important waterfowl habitat. Activities available there include birdwatching, hiking, photography, and canoeing. The area is home to at least 275 bird species, 37 mammal species, and 12 reptile and amphibian species. Its biodiversity and the activities on offer make clear that a visit is not limited to a single form of nature observation.

Also on Sauvie Island is Wapato Access, a state-managed recreation and wildlife area in western Multnomah County. It can be reached by boat from Hadley's Landing on the Multnomah Channel. A 2-mile trail circles the lake; an observation deck and a bird-viewing shelter offer views of the water. The area can be explored on the trail as well as from the observation deck and bird-viewing shelter.

Boat Access, Forest Trails, and a Waterfall

Government Island State Recreation Area is accessible only by boat. The main island has a 15-mile shoreline; its freshwater wetlands provide habitat for salmon, salamanders, bats, turtles, and birds. The site also has historical significance: Government Island was one of fourteen landing sites in the Vancouver-Portland area used by Lewis and Clark. Boat access is an important consideration when planning a visit.

Forest Park covers 5,200 acres and has more than 80 miles of trails. The Wildwood Trail, a 30-mile natural-surface footpath, runs through the park. These figures describe different scales: the area and trail network characterize the park as a whole, while the length and surface refer to the named trail.

Multnomah Falls is 620 feet high and lies near Interstate 84 between Troutdale and Cascade Locks. The waterfall was formed about 15,000 years ago by the Missoula Floods. Vehicles and bicycles can reach the falls and Multnomah Falls Lodge via the Historic Columbia River Highway. The lodge houses a gift shop, a restaurant, and a U.S. Forest Service information center. The waterfall’s geological origins, height, and access each offer a distinct point of reference for a visit.

Gardens and Cultural Sites

Multnomah County is home to Lan Su Chinese Garden, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), and the Oregon Historical Society. Lan Su Chinese Garden was built by Chinese artisans from Suzhou. Traditional Chinese tea is served daily at the garden’s Yun Shui Teahouse; check before your visit whether service will be available then.

At OMSI, visitors can test ideas, experiment, and collaborate in labs and exhibition halls. The Oregon Historical Society allows adult and community groups to book self-guided exhibition tours; check current booking arrangements in advance. The two venues therefore differ considerably in how visitors can engage with exhibits and topics.

Choosing a Location for Your Stay

When looking for a hotel in Multnomah, it’s worth first sorting out the experiences you have planned: water and boat access, trails and wildlife viewing, or gardens and cultural sites each offer a different focus. Choose your hotel location based on which of the places mentioned you want to visit.

Discover more destinations: Gresham, Portland, Troutdale, Morrow County, Benton, Klamath County, Washington, Jackson.

For the broader travel overview: Oregon.