ODOT delays closure of east Multnomah Falls viaducts amid rainy weather

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The months-long closure of a viaduct east of Multnomah Falls has been delayed — due to rain.

The Oregon Department of Transportation will close the section from east of Multnomah Creek to the Oneonta Trailhead parking lot starting on Oct. 6. Crews were originally expected to begin work on that stretch of Historic Columbia River Highway on Wednesday, but the

latest fall weather forecast has changed plans.

Traffic at the East Multnomah Falls Viaduct will be closed to both drivers and cyclists as state transportation officials work to restore the roadway.

“The viaducts are National Historic Landmarks, and we will preserve their historic integrity to retain the look they had in 1914,” ODOT said. “Their features will be similar to the old design in color and texture. In May 2025, we completed repairs of the west viaduct ahead of schedule after closing that section of the historic highway in fall 2024.”

According to the transportation department, this work will ensure that the nearly 4,000 vehicles that use the viaducts daily can continue using them for “years to come.” Installing a new concrete surface, repairing railings and replacing signage are among the focuses of the project.

Drivers who travel westbound from Hood River amid the closure will be diverted at Oneonta Trailhead before arriving at Multnomah Falls Lodge. Visitors can still access the waterfall from the Interstate 84 parking lot at Exit 31, although officials noted that parking is limited.

“The west side of the historic highway will provide access to the lodge parking lot, but the highway will be closed to further eastward travel,” ODOT added.

The closure is projected to last through spring 2026.