Photo by Johann and Sandra
Scenic Hikes
Mt. Hood National Forest
Ramona Falls Loop Hike
This easy trail is a perfect day hike. The trail itself is fairly flat and easy, which makes this a very popular hike. It meanders through a diverse representation of lodgpole pines, hemlock, creeks and rivers, but the real prize is the waterfall. It's cascade is quite different from the much taller falls of the Columbia River Gorge. Ramona Falls cascades like a wonderland over the wide, rock lip. Be careful to stay on the trail at the falls due to the very fragile environment.
The trail leaves the gravel parking area through a mountain hemlock forest, following the Sandy River. At 1.2 miles, you'll reach a confusing intersection. Follow the trail to the left and cross over the Sandy River via a footbridge. After rising up the other bank of the river and re-entering the forest, you'll come to an intersection where you'll need to fill out a mandatory wilderness permit before continuing.
From here you can go either direction, as it is a loop, but we suggest taking the more scenic trail to the left. You'll cross another creek and wind your way through a pine forest before following Ramona Creek. Just around the bend, you'll find fantastic Ramona Falls, perhaps the most beautiful waterfall in Oregon. Sunlight is limited in this area, so bring a sweater if you are planning to stay at the falls for a picnic lunch. You can camp here, but because of heavy use, camping is not permitted within 500 feet of the falls. If you choose to stay in the area, your campsite should not be visible from the falls or the trail.
For your return trip, you can take the Timberline Trail around Yocum Ridge to Bald Mountain (which adds 5.9 miles and brings you back to Ramona Falls ), or continue along the loop back to the trail head.
Directions to Ramona Falls - (from portland)
- Take US-26 eastbound toward Mt. Hood to Zigzag.
- Turn left onto Lolo Pass Road (across from the Zigzag Ranger Station).
- Go 4.2 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 1825.
- After 0.7 miles, turn right across the Sandy River bridge.
- Continue 1.8 miles on FR-1825. The road will fork left onto Forest Road 100 for half a mile.
- You'll find the gravel parking area at road's end.
Parking
The parking area is gravel and a Northwest Forest Pass is required. Because of the heavy impact to the area, please adhere to the camping and day use regulations posted at the trail head.
More Info
For more detailed information about directions, this hike and others, please visit the Mt. Hood Information Center, next to Mt. Hood Village RV Resort, 2 miles west of the stoplight at Welches Road and US Highway 26.
August/September 2006