Over the river and through the woods, to Ramona Falls we go. The magic of Mt. Hood National Forest was on full display for this hike; we followed the footsteps of a fabled path to a mystical grove where croaking ravens eyed our lunch and a prince successfully wooed a princess (congrats to the happy couple on your engagement).
In all seriousness, this adventure is one for the storybooks.
Quick facts
- Starting point: Ramona Falls Trailhead
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 7 miles
- Route type: Lollipop loop
- Elevation gain: 1,000 ft
- Trail surface: Dirt
- Wheelchair accessible: No
- Open: Gate is closed Dec. 1-April 1
- Dog friendly: Yes, on leash
Brief overview
Your blood gets pumping early in this adventure along the Sandy River, which tumbles from its glacial origins on the slopes of Mount Hood. As you gradually gain elevation, the depth and width of the canyon grow, eventually opening up for you to cross either by safely fording the rushing water or shimmying on a log. Your ultimate reward is Ramona Falls, a beautiful horsetail deluge that spreads out over a 120-ft drop, cascading in rivulets over the moss-laden columnar basalt cliff.
Why you should try it
Biomes change in the blink of an eye here. One minute you’ll be strolling through red alder sprouting from the flat riverbank, the next you’ll be in the shade of Douglas firs, where pops of pink rhododendrons greet your every turn. Our suggested loop direction is counterclockwise; you’ll climb with the canyon on your right (on the Pacific Crest Trail, no less) and descend the Ramona Creek ravine.
Pro tips
Drive a vehicle with decent clearance — the forest road is short but rutted with pits and potholes. The parking lot is massive, but filled up by the time we finished, so an early start is ideal. You’ll also need a National Forest Day Pass ($5) or an America the Beautiful Pass displayed on your dash.
Let us know
Did you try this hike? Do you know of one we should check out? Send us your thoughts and recommendations — or check out our other monthly hiking guides.
