About the Sandy River Water Trail
Within an hour’s drive from Portland, the Sandy River provides excellent options for river recreation. The lower, more accessible river segments attract visitors during the busy summer season, while the more challenging segments provide a chance to improve paddling skill and experience.
The Sandy River provides a full spectrum of rapids, from Class I –flat water to Class IV+ whitewater rapids. The Sandy River illustrates the complex geologic and natural forces that have shaped the Pacific Northwest. The river moves rapidly through rugged canyons with deep boulders and pools, and gravel bars shaded by tall conifer forests. Weather patterns result in more than 100 inches of annual precipitation at higher elevations.
The Sandy River takes its name from Mount Hood’s Sandy Glacier, which feeds the river with sediment-laden, nutrient rich water. During parts of the year where the snow and glacial melt account for much of the river’s flow, the Sandy can take on a distinct, clouded appearance.
Visitor services along the Water Trail
An abundance of services are available for river users along the entirety of the Sandy River Water Trail.
For visitors to the lower segments of the river, the city of Troutdale offers supplies, restaurants, and gasoline all within minutes of major river access points. Contact the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce (503) 669-7473 for more information.
Visitors to the middle and upper river segments can find a wide range of services in Sandy and the Villages of Mount Hood along US Highway 26. The Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce (503) 668-4006 as well as Oregon’s Mount Hood Territory (800) 424-3002 can help you locate these services.
Water Trail Information:
Please contact the respective site or land managers:
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD):
1-800-551-6949
www.oregonstateparks.org
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Salem District:
503-375-5646
www.blm.gov/or/index.php
Metro:
503-797-1850
www.oregonmetro.gov
Portland Water Bureau:
503-823-7404
www.portlandonline.com/water/dodgepark
City of Sandy
39250 Pioneer Blvd.
Sandy, OR 97055
www.cityofsandy.com or 503-668-5533
City of Troutdale
104 SE Kibling Ave.
Troutdale, OR
www.ci.troutdale.or.us
General Information: 503-665-5175
Parks and Facilities: 503-666-8303
