Oregon is ravishing all year long — but during the fall, the Beaver State totally dazzles. This time of year, the shorter days, crisp temperatures, and dazzling fall foliage all come together in the most wondrous way, making Oregon’s Great Outdoors even more appealing than usual. If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy this splendid season, we recommend checking out one of Oregon’s most charming mountain towns. Sandy, Oregon is postcard-perfect in the fall, and we guarantee you’ll fall in love with this little town after visiting!
Sandy is a small city of around 11,000 residents that’s set within one of the most resplendent regions of Oregon. And while it’s a beautiful place to visit any time of the year, Sandy is especially lovely when drenched in autumn color.
Jonsrud Viewpoint - 202C/Wikiupedia
For this day trip, we recommend first fueling up at Joe’s Donut Shop.
Tyler B/Google Local Joe’s is a favorite stop along the way to Mt. Hood – but don’t get us wrong, it’s a destination in and of itself. Everything about this place is the best, from its red-and-white building to its face-sized frosted donuts! Joe’s Donut Shop, 39230 Pioneer Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Now that you’re properly fortified, it’s time to spend a day reveling in the abundant beauty of this Oregon mountain town.
Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr
Sandy is located at the foothills of Mt. Hood, and the outdoor recreation of this area is unrivaled – especially during the fall.
Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr
The Sandy Ridge Trail System is a must for trailblazers, featuring 17 miles of well-maintained trails for hikers and bikers.
Hai Pham/Google Local
If you prefer exploring by foot, the hike to Jonsrud Viewpoint is a must. This is one of the most epic and breathtaking overlooks in Oregon!
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr Jonsrud Viewpoint, 15652 Bluff Rd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Weather not cooperating for your fall day trip to Sandy? Spend the afternoon perusing The Sandy Historical Society & Museum. This museum features a collection of historical artifacts and photos from Oregon’s earliest pioneer days, and is a total hidden gem.
Wade Amesbury/Google Local Sandy Historical Society, 39345 Pioneer Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
In town, a visit to the Tollgate Inn is a must. This popular eatery specializes in scratch-made comfort food, craft cocktails, and fresh baked desserts – perfect after a day spent out on the trails!
Rachel R/Google Local Tollgate Inn Restaurant & Saloon, 38100 US-26, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Sandy, Oregon, is a charming mountain town that makes for a delightful and low-key day trip for anyone looking to admire the Beaver State’s natural beauty.
David Prasad/Flickr
Have you visited this mountain town before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience — especially if you visited Sandy, Oregon in the fall! And if there’s another charming town you’d like to see featured on Only In Oregon, nominate it here and tell us why.
Jonsrud Viewpoint - 202C/Wikiupedia
Tyler B/Google Local
Joe’s is a favorite stop along the way to Mt. Hood – but don’t get us wrong, it’s a destination in and of itself. Everything about this place is the best, from its red-and-white building to its face-sized frosted donuts!
Joe’s Donut Shop, 39230 Pioneer Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr
Hai Pham/Google Local
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
Jonsrud Viewpoint, 15652 Bluff Rd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Wade Amesbury/Google Local
Sandy Historical Society, 39345 Pioneer Blvd, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
Rachel R/Google Local
Tollgate Inn Restaurant & Saloon, 38100 US-26, Sandy, OR 97055, USA
David Prasad/Flickr
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Address: Sandy, OR, USA