The East Multnomah Falls Viaduct, a structure built in 1914 on the Historic Columbia River Highway, will be closed to all traffic starting October 1, 2025. The closure is expected to last through spring 2026 as repairs are made to preserve the viaduct’s historic features.
According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), the closure will affect the section just east of Multnomah Creek near employee parking on the historic highway and extend to the Oneonta Trailhead parking lot. Vehicles traveling westbound from Hood River will be required to turn around at the Oneonta Trailhead before reaching Multnomah Falls Lodge.
Access to Multnomah Falls via Interstate 84’s Exit 31 parking lot will remain open during this period, though parking is limited. Visitors can also use public transit or private buses for access without needing to park. Information about routes, schedules, and tickets is available at RideCatBus.org and ReadySetGorge.com.
ODOT encourages those interested in learning more about the project or staying updated on traffic impacts to watch their informational video or visit their website for further details and newsletter sign-up opportunities.
The viaducts are listed as National Historic Landmarks. ODOT states: “The viaducts are National Historic Landmarks, and we will preserve their historic integrity to retain the look they had in 1914. Their features will be similar to the old design in color and texture.” The repair work aims for each viaduct “to continue carrying traffic along the Historic Columbia River Highway for years to come.”
About 4,000 vehicles cross these structures daily. Recent repairs on the west viaduct were completed ahead of schedule in May 2025 after a closure that began in fall 2024.
Planned repairs include removing old asphalt and installing new concrete surfaces that match original designs; repairing railings, columns, and support beams with cracks or exposed rebar; addressing erosion issues; and replacing permanent signs so they meet current standards.
While ODOT faces a funding crisis affecting its maintenance and operations budget, most construction projects like this one are proceeding because they rely on separate capital funds restricted by law for such purposes rather than day-to-day expenses. More information about ODOT’s funding situation can be found on its website.
