Garmin InReach Mini a review from the trail, Preparing Navigation get set with digital apps. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. (The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 overlaps with Ramona Falls for a couple miles in this area.) Once on the other side, look for cairns and footprints to reunite you with the trail on the left through a stand of mountain ash. For a more challenging hike, consider taking the Pacific Crest Trail and Timberline Trail instead of the Ramona Falls Trail. In 2004 a hiker drowned crossing the Sandy however, that was after a rainstorm that deposited 10 inches over 4 days. Pass the first of at least three glacial river crossing signs warning about safe passage when waters are high. Almost immediately after the bridge, the Timberline Trail bears off to the right. This is a moderate to strenuous hike; the round trip being 7.1 miles. The last time was in 1969 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Mazamas. Definitely go clockwise (or make a left at the fork). Always carry a map and compass, and be aware of your surroundings. There were a few bugs (I assume there could be a lot more in the early morning ). This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The trailhead is located approximately an hour and a half from Portland, Oregon. Ramona Falls was awesome! This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. But be careful some of the rocks are slippery and I cut my leg. People are making it harder for themselves by trying to balance on top of the log. The drive to the parking lot is gorgeous! The trail snakes through gullies and across open slopes before passing the Hidden Lake Trail (#779) on the left at 1.5 miles and 5720 feet with a small campsite and another at 1.8 miles. After a breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, we pack our daypacks and hit the Timberline Trail/PCT by a little after 8:30 am. Turn left onto Timberline Highway once you hit Government Camp, about 50 miles away. There are several dog-friendly restaurants and accommodations in the nearby town of Rhododendron and surrounding Mount Hood area. Also you need to pay the $5.00 fee or buy an annual pass to do the hike. Pass must be acquired beforehand as they are not sold at the trailhead. (There has been more than one drowning death in the area.) Read our privacy policy for more info. The Ramona Falls Trailhead is on the west side of Mount Hood, approximately a 50-mile drive from downtown. In my opinion, crossing the Sandy River wasnt terrible! Rest of the trail was well-traversed. Either return the same way or continue on, across the bridge and return on the Ramona Falls Trail #797. On summer weekends there may be 100 cars parked. Their is plenty or parking and there are two porta potties available. 780 NE Court St Next time we go, we plan to take that trail as an in and out instead of doing the loop because its so much nicer. I doubt it they have not replaced any of the bridges around Mount Hood that cross the larger rivers and have said they have no intention of doing so. Back across the Sandy River and then returning to the car park. $10: X Salmon Butte Trailhead. It rained sporadically during that time. Do not climb the rocks at the base of the waterfall for better photos, as it is slippery and dangerous and blocks other people's views of the falls. There are no designated picnic areas along the trail, but hikers can find suitable spots near the waterfall and along the trail. It hugs the creek from Ramona Falls, which is clear and sparkles as it meanders to eventually meet with the Muddy River. The only real challenge in this hike is crossing the Sandy River. Map Information, Areas for Older folks who are fit should be able to handle the hike, as well. Oregon Hikers Field Guide is built as a collaborative effort by its user community. History Ramona Falls Loop Hike Ramona Falls with bridge at base of falls (Jerry Adams) Looking down the Sandy River, Sandy River Trail (bobcat) Mt. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. After, the crossing pay attention to the trail, so you dont get off course. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. The Ramona Falls Hike is a favorite summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to the gradual elevation gain, relative proximity to Portland, and its beautiful climax at the wondrous Ramona Falls. Be advised that the bridge is out at the first crossing. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The only problem i found was the flies and mosquitos so i would also reccomand bug spray! The Forest Service has done a great job in clearing the trail. Gentle gradient bordering easy / medium. The exposed cliffs on the loop are crazy awesome! I really like the return on this trail. such an amazing hike. A road washout in the mid-1990s caused the trailhead to be located 1.4 miles farther away at the Old Maid Sand Pit. I went counterclockwise the 1st half of the loop is super sunny it was hard cuz of the heat + the incline too be sure to arrive early. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Basic Cook System easy backpacking setup, Basic Backpacking Kitchen all that you need to know, Basic Big 3 shelter, backpack and sleeping, Basic Hygiene and Medical How to stay clean and well on trail. For directions to Ramona Falls just drive to the town of Zigzag and turn left on East Lolo Pass road and follow the signs as you come to them to Ramona Falls trailhead. I think it's fine.If you don't feel comfortable walking on the log then just sit and scoot that's what I did. Just find a big log you can walk across. I cant believe I havent written a report on Ramona Falls! United States government. Ensure your dog is in good physical condition for the hike and is comfortable with river crossings. Hood. (971) 333-4100 Hiker Headlines: Hike-a-Thon, Frog Mountain (and More!) Two longer hikes that include Ramona Falls are the Muddy Fork Loop Hike and the Yocum Ridge Hike. ENJOY! This makes a nice loop. What attractions are near Ramona Falls Trail? (503) 622-3191 $5: X: X Paradise Park Trailhead. Located just an hour and a half from Portland, Ramona Falls is one of the most striking destinations in the Mount Hood Wilderness. $$ - $$$ Mexican American Fast Food, $$ - $$$ Italian Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $ American Cafe Vegetarian Friendly. I went late in the afternoon on a weekday. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. You get a better view of the stream on your way up. The trail then meanders across the valley floor past the first turn off (to the left) towards Ramona Falls and the second turn off (to the right) to the Ramona Falls parking lot and trailhead before gently ascending the valley to second Ramona Falls trail junction. Didnt notice any mosquitoes, but the flies are annoying. Cloudflare Ray ID: 7ee7d1bf094a3600 Follow it four miles. There are no visitor centers at the trailhead, but the Zigzag Ranger Station is located nearby on Highway 26 for information and updates on trail conditions. In Zigzag you can pick these up at the Ranger Station and they have much cleaner bathrooms then what is up at the trailhead. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Details 5 Miles round trip 1,000 feet of elevation gain Do not do this in the summer unless you are prepared with tons of water and sunscreen. (541) 467-2291 From this trailhead, visitors take the Sandy River Trail one mile eastward to where it crosses the Sandy River. The number of downed trees in this section makes it impassable. Physical signs of a volcanic debris flow from over 200 years ago are evident where the trail . Hood, ZigZag Mountain and Tom Dick and Harry, Mountains? By combining all three of these trails, visitors can make the Ramona Falls Loop through the Mount Hood Wilderness. ) or https:// means you've safely Start the hike at a comfortable pace and conserve energy for potential challenges along the trail, such as the river crossing. With the most challenging part of the hike out of the way I made good time to my vehicle which to my great relief had not been broken into. This page has been accessed 564,966 times. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Go clockwise so you get the shade going in. There also used to be a great campsite at the junction of the PCT and the Ramona Falls Trail. By combining all three of these trails, visitors can make the Ramona Falls Loop through the Mount Hood Wilderness. the. About the Hike: Like white lace, 120-foot Ramona Falls drapes across a stair-stepped cliff of columnar basalt. I hit the Romano Falls trailhead extremely early, to beat the heat, and crowds. It's such a popular hike that you need a permit to do it. The trail is still accessible from the Ramona Falls trailhead, but hikers must use caution at the river crossing. Clockwise gets you to the falls in 4.5 miles https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/timberline-trail-timberline-lodge-to-ramona-falls, https://www.wta.org/site_images/hikes/hike-image-2022-07-21-0668211975/@@download/image/Timberline Trail - Timberline Lodge to Ramona Falls by Tiffany Chou.jpg. Southwest Washington > Columbia River Gorge - OR, Timberline National Historic Trail (#600), Mt. I decided to hike out and get back to my car. Clockwise around Timberline you have to cross the ZigZag usually the smallest, Sandy, Muddy, Coe, Eliot, Clark, Newton and White. Explore this 11.4-km circular trail near Rhododendron, Oregon. 2 main things to know: first, you need a parking pass BEFORE arriving at the trailhead - stop at the Zigzag Ranger Station (they also have maps) or buy online; second, you will have to cross the Sandy River, and there is NO BRIDGE. Fresh cold water. Be sure to check for trail conditions before starting your trip. Hood Wilderness in 2009, so consider this a hike into the backcountry with all the attendant precautions. Print/PDF map. Come to the Sandy River-Ramona Falls Trailhead Trail Junction, and proceed past a large boulder to a stop sign, where youll need to fill out a free wilderness permit. There is a wonderful area right in front of the falls where you can take a break, sit and relax taking in the beauty of the moment. trip reports for this trail. Research campsite regulations, choose a dog-friendly campsite, and familiarize your dog with camping routines before your trip. This IS NOT a hike for elderly or small kids 10 and below they will have to balance across logs over rapids and hike steep hillside with plenty of gravel and sharp rock (moms worst nightmare) bring lots of water and snacks. I had hesitation here, but the young lady who loaned me the pen, showed me the perfect example of how to cross the log without falling off of it. I like to hike the loop trail clockwise. The Timberline Lodge to Ramona Falls section is accessible from the Timberline Lodge, Hidden Lake Trail, Paradise Park Trail, ZigZag Mountain Trail, Sandy River Trail and the Ramona Falls Trailhead. Most people hike the iconic Paradise Park Loop from Timberline Lodge. On the way back, Mt Hood had some rough lenticular formations, and the morning light was lovely. Official websites use .gov A .gov The distance round trip for this point is 7 miles. Lost Creek Campground is a fully accessible campground allowing anyone access to campsites, fishing and a paved nature trail that meanders through the area. There is a parking area available at the trailhead, but be aware that it can fill up quickly during peak hiking season. Photos (3,923) Directions. The Timberline Trail runs .1 mile up from behind the National Historic Landmark of Timberline Lodge. Takes you from a forest, to a sandy dry creekbed, to scrambling rocks, to a gorgeous forest stretch (last mile and a half) next to a stream (if you take the left fork). Probably not good for elderly. Keep your distance from wild animals and be respectful of their habitats. From Portland, OR - follow US Highway 26 to Zigzag, OR. There are plenty of logs laid out to walk on and grab ahold of. Hood. Its truly a magical place. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, bring plenty of water and snacks, and pace yourself throughout the hike. parking lot fills up quick, we got there at 8 and was fine. Exhibits tell the story of this once . Anyhow I zipped my way up to the Ramona Falls Trailhead. Leave the stream to pass above a gully, and keep rising through mountain hemlock, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, western red-cedar, lodgepole pine, rhododendron, and Sitka alder. Be particularly careful early in the season the flow rate will drop a lot in the late-season August / September and it can also be less in the morning as the amount of snowmelt is less. Nice big logs for river crossing. Was sandy most of the way. Water is Bright blue.They have cabins and I think Kayak rentals. Camping is not permitted along the Ramona Falls Trail, but there are designated campsites nearby in the Mount Hood National Forest. We crossed in five seconds with forty pound packs. Not afraid of water, just don't want to hike that far with soaked frozen feet from the very start. I had read a tip on Twitter that this is a great hike for broken shells of human beings. Its a destination hike to the falls, which are beautiful. I could not imagine doing this crossing in the early Spring, but it was pretty manageable, there was logs you can navigate over. The trail from the trailhead follows the Sandy River for the first 1 1/4. 4.5 (34 reviews) Unclaimed Hiking Edit See all 133 photos Write a review Add photo Review Highlights "Hood, cross the Sandy River, see mossy alpine ground and many alpine streams, and a great waterfall to boot." in 8 reviews "Note: The site we used to find the falls said that you can purchase a parking pass at the trailhead." in 6 reviews It was dusty but beautiful. But there are SO many deep holes along the way. Continue reading, 1 Bring a waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves in case of rain or chillier temperatures. There are portable restrooms and trash cans in the parking lot. Most visitors access this trail from Ramona Falls Trailhead. The round trip is approximately 9 miles. He has a passion for hiking and can often be found out on the trails in the Pacific Northwest. Going left puts you on a trail that will feel like a fairytale world. campsites nearby in the Mount Hood National Forest, Hiking The Multnomah Falls Trail: A Guide to the Best Views, Unique Sports Dog Names : Athletic Canine Monikers, Trailhead location: Ramona Falls Trailhead, Dog policy: Allowed on a leash, but it is crucial to keep your dog under control, especially during the river crossing, Accessible for most hikers with moderate difficulty, River crossing can be challenging and potentially dangerous, Limited amenities and facilities at the trailhead. Ensure that you have the proper gear, especially for the river crossing, and be prepared for any unforeseen challenges during your hike. This moderately challenging hike is suitable for most hikers and is best experienced from May through October. They say it can get up to a hundred on the weekend. 7.Directions and Parking (Ramona Falls Trail), 11.Nearby Attractions and Points ofInterest. We stopped for a while once we reached the falls to eat lunch & enjoy the view! Hood Wilderness, Oregon (Backcountrycow), The Ramona Falls in Oregon is a Must-Do Adventure (That Oregon Life), Hike to Ramona Falls (The Outbound Collective), Mt Hood solo hiker drowned while crossing swollen Sandy River (Traditional Mountaineering), "Ramona Falls Trail still may be dangerous; washed-out footbridge may not be replaced soon" (Oregon Live), Ramona Falls (Northwest Waterfall Survey), https://www.oregonhikers.org/w/index.php?title=Ramona_Falls_Loop_Hike&oldid=115099. 178.63.35.81 Afterward, its only three miles plus back, and this part of the trail is not as beautiful as the left side we took! Visitors can explore the historic Timberline Lodge located on Mount Hood, just a short drive from the Ramona Falls Trail. Ramona Falls Haiku. This trail is super easy and well marked. This "lollipop loop . Head out on this 14.1-mile out-and-back trail near Culver City, California. The trail drops off the bench again and wends down among rhododendrons to the Pacific Crest-Sandy River Trail Junction. Before your hike, contact a local ranger station to inquire about the river crossings safety. Trail routing and conditions are subject to change. Exploring the Great Outdoors with AI: How Technology is Revolutionizing Backpacking, Timberline Trail Survey Results Part Three, 7.5 mile round trip with a gain of about 1000, Much more open than in previous years because of downed trees, Gets busy and the car park will fill up at weekends, Fee area from Mid May a NW Forest Pass works well. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead. Physical signs of a volcanic debris flow from over 200 years ago are evident where the trail is near the Sandy River. what does this mean? at Ensure you have appropriate footwear, a map and compass, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Trail was quite dusty The road in the last 1/4 th of a mile is hideous with giant potholes. (we're from chicago so our hills are a speed bumps) It's a very rocky trail and the inclines weren't hard to navigate just back-to-back which wiped us out! Please note: I am not a professional veterinarian, but rather a dedicated pet parent sharing my knowledge gained through research and personal experience. That being said, there was a cougar attack in this area last year, so hiking alone is more risky. Explore this beautiful drive before or after your hike. It then follows the Sandy River towards Mount Hood, along the top of the canyon. The view of Mount Hood is spectacular. Illumination Rock rises up from between the Zigzag and Reid Glaciers, a popular location historically used to set off fireworks. Strongly recommend doing that if you like to enjoy the falls in some peace and quiet. Dog boots: To protect their paws from snow, ice, and sharp rocks. A seven mile round trip hike to see a beautiful waterfall. (503) 668-1700 2. This loop is also done in the winter on snowshoes or skis, but remember that the access road is gated further down from December 1st to April 1st. You do go into Wilderness, so grab a free permit on your way in (this is in case you need to be rescued). Matt is the curator of Hikeit! The Timberline Lodge to Ramona Falls section is accessible from the Timberline Lodge, Hidden Lake Trail, Paradise Park Trail, ZigZag Mountain Trail, Sandy River Trail and the Ramona Falls Trailhead. Have fun > Both hikes are beautiful. You can improve or add to this guidebook entry! Hood National Forest, Hood River and Zigzag Ranger Districts, Day Hiking Mount Hood: A Year-Round Guide by Eli Boschetto, Around & About Mount Hood by Sonia Buist with Emily Keller, Green Trails Mount Hood #461 and Government Camp #462 or Mount Hood #462SX. There are no restrooms available at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. Pass out of shady old growth to the stunted Old Maid Flat forest. Beginning in about 1780, pyroclastic flows from Mount Hood buried the Sandy River, which continues to change its course as it carves through the soft strata. This page was last modified on 25 March 2020, at 21:50. Your email address will not be published. Leash and harness: For safety and better control. So really depends on time of year, water level, etc. 360 Camera. Note that the USFS has officially rerouted the Timberline Trail in this area onto the PCT. Continuing straight is the PCT south and the way to Ramona falls. (971) 333-4100 on official, secure websites. Drop in and out of a gully, and head up parallel to the river in shady woods.