If you’re planning the Ramona Falls Loop, this is where it starts. The loop combines the Sandy River Trail, the Ramona Falls Trail, and part of the Pacific Crest Trail in the Mount Hood Wilderness. The trailhead is north of Zigzag in the Zigzag Ranger District, via Lolo Pass Road and Forest Road 1825. The road in is rough, so take it slow; high clearance helps.
About a mile in, the trail reaches the glacier-fed Sandy River, where a volcanic debris flow more than 200 years ago left marks you can still see. There’s no footbridge, so turn back if the crossing doesn’t feel safe. The big lot fills on busy weekends. Restrooms are seasonal, and there’s no drinking water.
Things to do
- Picnicking
Getting there
From Portland, OR
- follow US Highway 26 to Zigzag, OR.
- Turn north on Lolo Pass Road (Forest Road 18).
- Follow it four miles.
- Turn east (right) onto Forest Road 1825 and continue 0.6 miles, cross a bridge and then continue 1.7 miles to a road junction.
- Bear left at the junction onto Forest Road 1825-100 and drive 0.3 mile.
- Take a left onto Forest Road 1825-024 to a large open parking lot (0.2 mile)
Road notes
The road to Ramona Falls Trailhead is rough. Drive slowly and carefully; high-clearance vehicles recommended.
Parking
Large parking area accommodating more than 50 vehicles. Can fill up quickly on busy summer weekends.
From the Forest Service
Rules and restrictions
Wilderness restrictions apply in Mount Hood Wilderness.
All fees
Day Use:
Peak Season (May 1 - Oct 31):
$5 per vehicle per day
$30 per annual
$5 per vehicle per day from May 1 to October 31.
Passes and permits
A valid federal Recreation Pass is required from May 1 to October 31.
Free, self-issued wilderness permits are required between May 1 and Oct 31 when provided at a portal.
Horses and pack animals
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
Ranger office
Zigzag Ranger District
Address: 70220 E Highway 26 Zigzag, OR 97049
Phone: 503-622-3191
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed 12 to 1 for lunch. (Closed on federal holidays)
