The complementing architecture around the falls, Benson Bridge and Multnomah Falls Lodge, are features that makes this waterfall special. Benson Bridge, crafted by Italian stone masons, allows visitors to cross the falls between it’s lower and upper cataracts. See Multnomah Falls Recreation Area for more information and a video.
In 1914, Simon Benson, a prominent businessman and owner of the falls at that time, erected the bridge. Before then, a log bridge was in its place. Benson gave the 300 acre site to the City of Portland. In 1943, final ownership of the site and lodge was transferred to the USDA Forest Service.
The Lodge was built in 1925 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It had dormitories and four rooms for overnight stays. Overnight accomodations are no longer available. Every type of rock found in the Columbia River Gorge is represented in the Lodge.
Inside the lower level of the Lodge is a USDA Forest Service Information Center, a snack bar, and a gift shop. In the upper portion of the lodge is a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is also accessible by elevator.
For information about accessible recreation opportunities in Pacific Northwest National Forests, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r6/accessiblerecreation