Discover Multnomah: Nature, Water and Culture
Accommodation in Multnomah
Multnomah combines impressive landscapes, water experiences and cultural sites into a destination with many different ideas for day trips. Families can choose between short observations in wetlands, longer routes through forests, boating destinations and museums. When searching for a vacation rental or vacation home, it is therefore worthwhile to first determine the desired focus: nature, water, excursions along the Columbia River or culture in Multnomah County.
Water Landscapes and Wildlife Observation
Blue Lake Regional Park is defined by its namesake lake, which is fed by underground springs. Several miles of trails lead through wooded picnic areas and wetlands. The park also includes a Gold-level 18-hole disc golf course. The trail network leads to the Nichàqwli Monument, combining a nature experience with a special site within the park.
Chinook Landing Marine Park is located on the Columbia River. Six boat-launch facilities make it a destination for visitors who want to connect their trip with the water. The park also includes wetlands and wildlife habitats. Accessible piers offer another way to experience the surroundings.
Government Island State Recreation Area is accessible exclusively by boat. Its shoreline extends for 15 miles; the freshwater wetlands provide habitat for salmon, salamanders, bats, turtles and birds. Historical interests are also part of the landscape here: Government Island was one of fourteen landing sites in the Vancouver–Portland area used by Lewis and Clark.
Hiking, Birds and Expansive Trails
For nature observation and outdoor activity, Sauvie Island Wildlife Area offers a wide range of options. The area protects important habitat for waterfowl. Birdwatching, hiking, photography and canoeing are possible focuses. At least 275 bird species, 37 mammal species and 12 reptile and amphibian species are found there. Wapato Access can be reached by boat from Hadley's Landing on the Multnomah Channel. A viewing platform and a bird-observation shelter overlook the lake; a 2-mile trail also leads around the body of water.
Those planning longer hikes will find 5,200 acres and more than 80 miles of trails in Forest Park. The Wildwood Trail runs for 30 miles through the park and has a natural surface. These differences help with planning the day: Wapato Access offers a clearly defined loop, while Forest Park allows for extended stretches of trail.
Waterfall, Views and Culture
Multnomah Falls is a 620-foot-high waterfall near Interstate 84 between Troutdale and Cascade Locks. The falls were formed about 15,000 years ago by the Missoula Floods. Vehicles and bicycles can reach Multnomah Falls and Multnomah Falls Lodge via the Historic Columbia River Highway. The lodge contains a gift shop, a restaurant and a U.S. Forest Service information center.
Multnomah County also offers several destinations for culturally oriented travel days. The Lan Su Chinese Garden, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and the Oregon Historical Society are located here. The Lan Su Chinese Garden was built by Chinese artisans from Suzhou; traditional Chinese tea is served daily at the Yun Shui Teahouse. The Portland Japanese Garden was founded in 1963. At OMSI, visitors can test ideas, experiment and collaborate in laboratories and exhibition halls. The Oregon Historical Society allows adult and community groups to book self-guided exhibition tours.
Choose the Right Base
You can align your accommodation search with your preferred mix of nature, culture and water. For an active stay, trails in Forest Park, Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and Wapato Access are key attractions. Those who want to combine excursions with landscapes and history can plan visits to Multnomah Falls, the lodge and destinations along the Columbia River. For a more flexible cultural day, the Lan Su Chinese Garden, OMSI, the Oregon Historical Society and the Portland Japanese Garden are interesting points of reference. Oregon Zoo is a major local family attraction and can be reached via the MAX light rail system and the underground Washington Park station.
For additional location options, the pages on Gresham, Portland and Troutdale are also available.
For the overarching travel overview: Oregon.
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