Paddle Section References
Wild and Scenic/State Scenic Waterway
In recognition of the river’s remarkable values, a 12.5 mile segment of the Sandy River from Dodge Park, downstream to Dabney State Recreation Site is designated as a federal Wild and Scenic River by the U.S. Congress and is also designated as a State Scenic Waterway by the people of Oregon.
These designations represent preserving what makes the river so special; amazing scenery, broad recreation opportunities, water quality and prime habitat for fish and wildlife. With the Wild and Scenic designation, restrictions are placed on certain activities such as hydroelectric development, to preserve the river’s inherent character.
To learn more about Wild and Scenic River, visit: www.rivers.gov
To learn about the State Scenic Waterway program, visit: www.oregonstateparks.org
Paddle Summaries
| Put-In | Take-Out | River Class (I to V) |
Optimal Boating | Craft | Experience Level |
| Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site | Columbia River Delta | I | Year-round | All paddlecraft (kayaks,canoes,rafts) |
Beginner |
| Dabney State Recreation Site | Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site | I+ | Year-round | All paddlecraft (kayaks,canoes,rafts) |
Beginner |
| Oxbow Regional Park | Dabney State Recreation Site | I+ | Year-round | All paddlecraft (kayaks,canoes,rafts) |
Beginner + |
| Dodge Park | Oxbow Regional Park | II+ | Year-round | Rafts at high river flows | Intermediate |
| Former Marmot Dam Site | Dodge Park | IV, V | Fall/Winter/Spring | Rafts at high river flows | Advanced |
| Sandy/Salmon Confluence | Former Marmot Dam Site | III | Fall/Winter/Spring | Rafts at high river flows | Intermediate |
What to Expect
The Sandy River originates from the slopes of Mount Hood. The river flows nearly 55 miles to the Columbia River. The Sandy River Water Trail begins near Brightwood at RM 38 and flows to the confluence of the Columbia River at RM 0.0
How to Use this Guide
The Sandy River Water Trail offers an exciting river experience for all levels of paddlers. This guidebook is to be used as an aid to further scouting and research to plan your floats.
The Sandy River has many access points from Dabney State Recreation Site, downstream with roads that run parallel to the river. However, the river’s middle and upper sections do not have the same access. Use the information in this guide to determine put-in’s and take-outs. Always develop a float plan and let other people know your plan!
The “Popular Floats” are organized based on skill level: beginner, intermediate and advance. Note estimated travel times and recommended skill levels. Do not overestimate your skill.
