Looking for one of the most breathtaking hikes in Oregon? Ramona Falls is a waterfall hike that simply can’t be missed if you are traveling within the state. Oregon is encased by beautiful mossy trees, and simply just driving to the trailhead will take your breathe away. And even more-so as you hike along the enchanted forest.
Ramona Falls is located in Mt. Hood National Forest. During peak season there is a permit required (more details below).
I did this hike when it was downpouring the entire hike, but because the hike is so stunning, I had a smile on my face the entire time! So enjoy the complete hiker’s guide to Ramona Falls below.
Ramona Falls: Oregon | The Complete Hiker’s Guide Stats
Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation: 1056 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Lollipop Loop
Permit: Required May 15th – October 15th
Bathroom: None
Dogs: Yes
Permit For Ramona Falls:
The first thing we need to cover on the complete hiker’s guide to Ramona Falls is the permit system. Due to the popularity of this hike, a permit is required from May 15th – October 15th. No permit is required outside those dates. You can pick one up at a Forest Service Office, a local business or purchase one online here.
Trailhead For Ramona Falls:
The trailhead is located at Ramona Falls Trailhead in Mt. Hood National Forest. If you put Ramona Falls Trailhead into your GPS, it will bring you right to a large parking lot. There is no bathroom located at the trailhead, so be sure to take care of your business before you arrive.
Beginning of Hike For Ramona Falls:
This hike is a lollipop loop, so you will be doing the first 1 ½ miles both on the way in and out. As you leave the parking lot to begin your hike, you will immediately be surrounded by a forest full of moss covered trees. The trail starts out relatively flat with minor elevation gain along the Sandy River. You will follow this trail for a little over a mile until you reach the Sandy River crossing.
Sandy River Crossing:
The river crossing can be dangerous if it has a heavy flow. The flow can change depending on the time of year and rainfall. The bridge that used to be there was washed away in a storm, so you now have to cross the river on fallen logs. We went in late October and the flow of the river was moderate, so there were parts where it was knee deep and you could walk across the river bed, but I would suggest trying to cross on a sturdy log. If it’s not too foggy, be sure to look to the right of the river to see an amazing view of Mount Hood.
Second Half of Hike For Ramona Falls:
After you cross the Sandy River, depending on where you cross you will want to get back to the main trail which is slightly to the left when facing away from the river. There are a few sister trails leading to the main trail from people walking up stream to find their ideal tree to cross.
Shortly after getting onto the main trail is where the loop begins for Ramona Falls. You will end up at this same point on your way back down. Follow the trail and head counterclockwise for a little under 2 miles.
From this point you will start to gradually gain some elevation. Along the path you will come upon a sign that meets up with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 which I found to be pretty neat.
Ramona Falls:
Once you reach the falls you will be blown away! When close to the waterfall make sure to keep non-waterproof items in a safe spot as there is a mist that comes from the falls. There are some nice spots to relax and have a snack and just admire the falls.
For safety precautions, it is always a good idea to carry an alternative way to get clean water when hiking. Accidents happen and sometimes you are on a trail longer than anticipated or you didn’t pack enough water on a super exposed hike. Lifestraw is the perfect gift idea for hikers and backpackers to just throw in their backpack when hiking or backpacking because it is lightweight and could save their life!
Hike Down:
When you are ready to make the journey back down from Ramona Falls, you will cross over the bridge and follow the loop down. This part of the hike is very beautiful as you follow a creek down and follow a tall rock wall to your right. We went in October, so we were able to see some great foliage too!
Takeaway | Ramona Falls: Oregon | The Complete Hiker’s Guide
The difficulty of Ramona Falls hike comes from the river crossing. If you have a toddler or have trouble with balance, you might consider doing a different hike. But the crossing is only a short portion of the hike and the rest of the hike is relatively easy.
We went after peak season, so it wasn’t too busy. We also went when it was raining and it poured on us the majority of the time, so be sure to have waterproof layers. With it raining the hike was still stunning and the falls were even more-so but we found it hard to photograph. Therefore, we suggest bringing Ziploc baggies or have a way to keep valuables dry around the falls.
We hope you enjoy The Complete Hiker’s Guide to Ramona Falls: Oregon. Make sure to take lots of photos and “Leave No Trace“.