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The best yurts near Sandy guide
Where to go
Mt. Hood
About a 45-minute drive east of Sandy, this perpetually snow-capped mountain (which lends its name to the Mt. Hood National Forest) offers great recreation opportunities year-round. In the cooler months, campers can ski, snowboard, and snowshoe, while hot summer days make Hood an excellent destination for hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in alpine lakes.
The Columbia River Gorge
Some of the prettiest scenery in the region can be found a short drive north of Sandy in the Columbia River Gorge. This stretch of the Columbia River, which separates Oregon from Washington state to the north, is full of gushing waterfalls, tree-lined trails, and towering viewpoints that offer epic views out over the region. Just note that it's insanely popular, and permits are required to visit certain sections of the area during the summer.
Silver Falls State Park
Just over an hour’s drive south of Sandy, Silver Falls State Park is considered one of the prettiest state parks in Oregon, owing mainly to its numerous waterfalls, 10 of which you can see for yourself by hiking the 7.2-mile-long Trail of Ten Falls (you can even walk behind a few of them). There’s also a campground with RV and tent camping plus a seasonal horse camp for equestrians.
When to go
Sandy is definitely a summer destination, though you will have to contend with crowds if you come between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Fortunately, the warm season in this part of the state continues well into September. If you’re a skier or snowboarder and want to spend time up on Mount Hood, the conditions are generally at their finest between January and March, though it’s often snowy enough for winter sports well into May.