Sandy Wild and Scenic River

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Fishing and Boating

Anglers can fish right from almost any location along the Sandy River. Rainbow trout is a common catch, and chinook and coho salmon can be caught during salmon season. Visitors can also raft, canoe, or kayak down the river, and there are several locations for swimming. Motorized boats are prohibited.

Climbing

Some of the best climbing in the state can be found in the Mount Hood National Forest, which isn’t far from the Sandy Wild and Scenic River. The area offers locations such as the Giant’s Staircase, which has two sport pitches, and The Sphinx. Altogether, there are about 100 traditional routes, 160 sport routes, and 15 top-rope routes, plus several other practice locations and opportunities for bouldering.

Wildlife Viewing

The Sandy Wild and Scenic River and the nearby Oxbow Regional Park and Mount Hood National Forest are all fantastic places to spot wildlife. Native species include elk, bats, coyotes, falcons, owls, flying squirrels, otters, deer, kestrels, and hummingbirds. The area is also home to several reptile and amphibian species, including giant salamanders, garter snakes, painted turtles, and red-legged frogs.

Picnicking

Dodge Park, located near Portland in the town of Sandy, is a great spot to stop for a picnic. There are several picnic tables, barbecue pits, and access to the river. The Coho Picnic Area, which is nestled against the river, is also a picturesque spot to stop for lunch.