The 7.1-mile (1,035' gain) lollipop loop to Ramona Falls is a popular summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to the gradual elevation gain, relative proximity to Portland (1 hour) and its beautiful climax at the wondrous falls. The trek begins on a wide, sandy trail from the large parking area. The most difficult section arrives within the first mile--crossing the Sandy River. The original bridge was washed out, so hikers must traverse one of the logs strewn across the water or attempt a ford. A great shot of Mt. Hood lies upstream.
The trail picks up on the opposite bank and winds though a forested gully, eventually ascending alongside the river. After bearing left at the Pacific Crest-Sandy River Trail junction, the path soon reaches a log footbridge over Ramona Creek and heads up the bank.
Keep right at the Ramona Falls-Pacific Crest Trail junction and continue up through the shaded woodland along the tranquil Ramona Creek. Look left to note the pink and sandy andesite cliffs.
Stay right at the junction with the Timberline Trail to admire Ramona Falls' splashing veil from the footbridge that spans the creek.
Complete the loop by continuing on the Timberline Trail, which gently drops among stunted mountain hemlocks and lodgepole pines. Turn right at the Pacific Crest-Timberline Middle Trail junction. Follow the path down among rhododendrons to the Pacific Crest-Sandy River Trail junction, staying left to make the Sandy River crossing and return to the trailhead.
Feeling ambitious and energized, I trail jogged the scenic loop counter-clockwise, encountering few people on a Tuesday morning. Next time, I would be interested to check out the longer hikes nearby, or to snowshoe/ski the loop during winter! 10:30am-12:30pm RT.
