Ramona Falls Trail is a 7.1-mile loop in Mt. Hood National Forest, Clackamas County, Oregon, leading to one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. The trailhead is accessed from Zigzag on US-26 via Lolo Pass Road (Forest Road 18) and Muddy Fork Road (Forest Road 1825); the final mile to the trailhead is unpaved and deeply rutted, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. No public transit serves the area. A Recreation Area Day Pass ($5) must be displayed on the vehicle dashboard; a self-issue permit box is located at the trailhead.
The trail begins in mossy old-growth Douglas fir and hemlock forest, descending to cross the Muddy Fork of the Sandy River via a seasonal footbridge installed each summer. The bridge is removed each winter to prevent flood damage, and hikers visiting in late spring before installation may need to rock-hop or wade the sometimes knee-deep glacial outflow. After the crossing, the trail follows the Sandy River drainage through progressively lush vegetation before ascending moderately through ancient forest to Ramona Falls at the 3.5-mile mark.
Ramona Falls drops approximately 120 feet in a series of cascades over a wide columnar basalt cliff face, spreading into a fan formation and creating a misting zone that sustains a dense moss and fern garden at its base. The falls are particularly photogenic because of the large mossy basalt amphitheater surrounding them, which captures filtered mid-morning light effectively. The return loop swings back on the east bank of the Sandy River, passing volcanic pumice outflows and alluvial fans deposited from Mt. Hood eruptions before rejoining the approach trail near the river crossing.
The trail gains approximately 900 feet over 7.1 miles and is rated moderate. The surface is a mix of compacted forest dirt, volcanic pumice, and occasional rooted sections near the river. Water is available from the Sandy River but must be treated; carrying 1.5–2 liters from the trailhead is recommended. The hike is best in early summer when flows are high and the forest is fully lush; by late August, falls volume noticeably decreases.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Mt. Hood National Forest, Clackamas County
- Best season
- June–October
What to bring
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Trekking poles
- Recreation Area Day Pass ($5 USD) from the permit box at trailhead
Location
Ramona Falls Trailhead, Muddy Fork Rd, Mt. Hood, OR 97028
45.3889, -121.7898 View on map
Highlights
- Ramona Falls — a 120-foot wide-fan waterfall spreading over a mossy columnar basalt cliff in an old-growth forest amphitheater
- Old-growth Douglas fir and hemlock forest corridor along the Sandy River drainage on the approach
- Sandy River pumice plain on the return loop — volcanic sand and alluvial fans from Mt. Hood's eruption history
- Seasonal footbridge over the Muddy Fork with views upstream toward the Sandy Glacier headwall
Tips for visiting
- Check bridge installation status with the Mt. Hood National Forest Zigzag Ranger District before visiting in May or early June — installation timing varies by year.
- A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for Muddy Fork Road; the last unpaved mile to the trailhead can be deeply rutted.
- Arrive before 8 a.m. on summer weekends — the small trailhead lot holds roughly 25 vehicles and fills by 9 a.m.
- Carry 1.5–2 liters of water from the trailhead; Sandy River water is glacial melt and requires treatment before drinking.
- Peak waterfall volume occurs in June and July; by September, flows are noticeably reduced.
When to visit
June through August offers the best combination of bridge access, lush vegetation, and strong waterfall flow. July is peak for both falls volume and old-growth forest greenery along the Sandy River drainage.
Accessibility
Ramona Falls Trail is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers. The trail involves a seasonal river crossing, rooted forest terrain, and unpaved access roads requiring a high-clearance vehicle. No accessible alternatives exist in this area of Mt. Hood National Forest.
Frequently asked questions
Is a permit required to hike Ramona Falls?
No advance reservation is required, but a Recreation Area Day Pass ($5 USD) must be displayed on the vehicle dashboard. An America the Beautiful pass covers the fee. A self-issue Wilderness Permit for the Mt. Hood Wilderness section is available at the trailhead permit box.
What happens if the footbridge is not installed?
If the Muddy Fork footbridge has not been installed for the season, the crossing can be made via rock hopping or wading. In early June, glacial melt flow can reach knee-to-thigh depth and is very cold. Many hikers wait until the bridge is in place — typically late June or early July — before attempting the hike.
How difficult is the Ramona Falls hike?
The hike is rated moderate, with 900 feet of elevation gain over 7.1 miles. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most fit hikers. Vehicle access to the trailhead on the unpaved Muddy Fork Road can be the biggest logistical challenge for low-clearance vehicles.
When is the best time to visit Ramona Falls?
June and July offer peak waterfall volume and lush forest conditions. The footbridge is typically in place by late June. By August, falls volume begins to decrease and the understory dries. Fall visitors in September and October encounter quieter conditions but reduced waterfall flow.