Multnomah Falls E-Bike Waterfall Tour (2+ Hours)

If you’re eyeing a trip to Portland and want a fresh way to see the area’s famous waterfalls, the Multnomah Falls E-Bike Waterfall Tour might just be the adventure you’re looking for. This tour offers a chance to explore some of Oregon’s most breathtaking cascades without the hassle of parking or fighting crowds. While I haven’t done it myself, the reviews paint a pretty compelling picture, and it’s easy to see why it’s rated so highly.

Two things that really stand out about this experience are how personalized and flexible it feels, plus the ease of biking with pedal assist that caters to most fitness levels. On the flip side, a potential consideration is sharing the road with cars—though most reviews note cautious drivers and helpful guides to keep everyone safe. If you’re someone who loves being outdoors, appreciates good scenery, and isn’t afraid to hop on a bike, this day trip could be a highlight.

This tour is especially suited for those who want to experience Oregon’s waterfalls from a new perspective—combining active fun with natural beauty. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a laid-back yet immersive way to see the sights without the usual crowds.

Key Points

• Skip the crowds: Avoid busy parking and long lines at Multnomah Falls by exploring on two wheels.
• Personalized experience: Since the tour is private, you get a more tailored and relaxed outing.
• Easy to do: Pedal assist bikes make it accessible for most fitness levels and ages.
• Includes multiple waterfalls: Stops at Horsetail, Ponytail, Wahkeena, and Multnomah Falls mean plenty of stunning photo ops.
• Flexible and extended options: Many guests choose to extend their day to enjoy even more scenery.
• Good value: With a price of $79 per person, the experience is considered quite reasonable given the scenery and personalization.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Setup

The tour kicks off on the Northeast Frontage Road in Oregon, with the convenience of a mobile ticket that you can simply show on your phone. It’s a private trip, so only your group will be riding together, which makes for a more intimate experience. Once geared up, your guide will lead you into the Columbia River Gorge, home to some of Oregon’s most photogenic waterfalls.

Horsetail Falls

Your first stop is Horsetail Falls, a classic waterfall that’s not only scenic but also a popular swimming and wading spot. We loved the way this stop offers a quick dose of nature’s power, plus some fun photo opportunities. You’re there for about 30 minutes, which is enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Ponytail Falls and Behind-the-Waterfall Hike

Next, there’s an optional short hike to the iconic Ponytail Falls. If you’re feeling energetic, walking behind the waterfall is a real treat—you’re literally standing behind a curtain of water, capturing that perfect shot. The tour recommends about 30 minutes here, and many reviews emphasize how worthwhile this side trip is, especially for the chance to get behind the cascading water.

Multnomah Falls

The centerpiece of the tour is Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest and most famous waterfall. You can park your bikes and walk up to the falls, with entry included in the tour. It’s a great chance to take in the view from the observation deck, and many found it breathtaking—it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited spots in the state. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, enough to snap photos and soak in the spectacle.

Wahkeena Falls

The last waterfall stop is Wahkeena Falls, where you can admire the cascade and enjoy some peaceful time in nature. This stop is free of charge and offers yet another perspective of the scenic gorge.

Additional Access

While the main entrance to some areas might be closed, the tour notes they have a way to legally access Oneonta Gorge on longer tours. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s worth reaching out ahead of time for details.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One said, “This wasn’t even on our original agenda and I’m so glad we did it, because it was the best part of our trip!!” – highlighting how spontaneous and enjoyable the experience can be. Others appreciated the ease of the bikes, noting that they were very user-friendly, making the tour accessible to most.

A common concern is sharing the road with vehicles, but most travelers felt that drivers are cautious, and the guides do a good job of keeping everyone safe. A reviewer mentioned, “Drivers were cautious, but there were a few who were not,” which reminds us to stay vigilant.

Cost-wise, many think it’s a great value, especially considering the personalized nature of the trip. For $79, you’re not just getting transportation—you’re getting a guided adventure with multiple stops, some optional hikes, and time to simply enjoy the scenery without the chaos of crowds.

The Practical Details

This is a 2-hour tour, but many guests end up extending their day. The tour is booked on average 16 days in advance, indicating it’s popular but also adaptable. The private setting means fewer worries about large group dynamics, and the limited group size allows for more personalized attention.

Since weather can be a factor, the tour offers a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions, adding a layer of security for travelers. Just keep in mind that cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so planning ahead is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love being outdoors and want a fun, active way to see waterfalls, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly suitable for those who find walking long distances tiring or seek a more engaging way to experience the scenery. The pedal assist bikes make it accessible, but you should be comfortable sharing the road with cars and other vehicles.

This tour may not be ideal for those with very young children or very limited mobility, but older kids and teens who enjoy a bit of adventure will have a blast. It’s also a good pick for travelers who prefer a personalized experience over large group tours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone visiting Portland and wanting to see some of Oregon’s most famous waterfalls without the hassle of crowds and parking, this e-bike tour offers a casual, enjoyable way to do so. The guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, and the scenery is genuinely spectacular.

The value of this tour shines through in the flexibility, scenic stops, and the chance to escape the busy main trails. If you enjoy outdoor activities, want to beat the crowds, and love a bit of adventure on two wheels, this could be a highlight of your trip.

However, it’s worth noting that sharing the road with cars can be a concern for some, so if safety in traffic is a top priority, you may want to consider that aspect. Overall, it’s a memorable, scenic experience that balances active fun with natural beauty—perfect for travelers looking for something a bit different.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the pedal assist bikes make it accessible for most fitness levels and ages. You won’t need to be a cyclist pro; just comfortable riding a bike.

How long is the tour?
The core experience lasts about 2 hours, but many guests extend their day to explore more or enjoy additional scenery.

Are the bikes easy to use?
Absolutely. The bikes have pedal assist, which makes riding easier, especially on hills or longer stretches.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if weather conditions lead to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes bike rental, guided service, and entry to Multnomah Falls. Stops at other waterfalls are free of charge, and optional hikes are part of the experience.

Is it family-friendly?
While most travelers enjoy it, it’s best suited for older children and teens who can handle cycling and sharing the road with traffic. It might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

If you’re eager to see Oregon’s waterfalls from a different angle and don’t mind a bit of traffic, this e-bike adventure could be just the thing to add a memorable twist to your trip.