About Ramona Falls

Ramona Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon. Rather than a single plunging column, the water spreads in dozens of delicate curtains across a massive mossy basalt face 120 feet tall — the effect is of a cathedral window made of water and rock. Located in the Mount Hood National Forest in Clackamas County, the falls are reached via a 7-mile round trip on a section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

The trail follows the Sandy River before crossing it on a seasonal footbridge and climbing through old-growth Pacific silver fir and western red cedar forest. Mount Hood is visible on clear days above the treeline. The basalt column geology of the falls face is different from anything else on the mountain — a ancient lava flow that the creek has sculpted into a spreading fan of curtains.

Trail Highlights

• Water spreads in dozens of lacy curtains across a 120-foot mossy basalt face
• A section of the Pacific Crest Trail is used on the approach
• Old-growth Pacific silver fir and western red cedar forest on the trail
• Mount Hood views on clear days above the treeline
• Peak flow from April through July from Sandy River snowmelt above

Trail Description

From the Ramona Falls trailhead on Lolo Pass Road, cross the Sandy River on the seasonal footbridge (typically in place May through October). The trail enters old-growth forest and begins a gradual climb toward the falls.

After 3.5 miles the trail arrives at the base of Ramona Falls. The full width of the lacy curtain display is immediately breathtaking. The pool at the base is deep and cold. Return via the same trail.

Tips & What to Bring

• The seasonal Sandy River footbridge is typically removed in fall — check conditions before late October visits
• A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead
• The PCT junction near the falls offers extension options for ambitious hikers
• Spring (May-June) offers peak water volume; October brings fall color to the maples
• Bring a rain jacket — the curtain-style falls create significant mist in peak season

Getting There

From Portland, OR, take US-26 East toward Mount Hood. Turn left on Lolo Pass Road and follow approximately 4 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 1825 and follow to the Ramona Falls trailhead. GPS: 45.3950, -121.7850.