City Of Troutdale Launches “Trout Route” Sandy River Shuttle (Photo) - 06/11/26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2026
Contact: City of Troutdale | 971-280-0394 | troutdaleoregon.gov
City of Troutdale Launches “Trout Route” Sandy River Shuttle
New shuttle service improves access to the Sandy River and historic downtown Troutdale while alleviating parking congestion at popular recreation areas
TROUTDALE, Ore. — Looking for a way to beat the heat this summer? There’s nothing like floating the Sandy River on a warm, summer day.
The City of Troutdale and Explore Troutdale are pleased to announce the launch of the Trout Route, a new summer shuttle service designed to make the Sandy River more accessible to visitors while reducing parking pressure at popular river access points. Operating on weekends through Labor Day, the Trout Route provides a seamless, affordable way to enjoy a classic Pacific Northwest summer day on the river.
The shuttle is operated by Sasquatch Shuttle and departs from the Sasquatch Adventures store at the Columbia Gorge Outlets (450 NW 257th Way, Troutdale), conveniently located just off I-84 at Exit 17 with ample free parking for all vehicle types, including RVs. Sasquatch Adventures even has tube rentals and life jackets, making it easier than ever to join in on the fun.
From the mall, riders are transported upriver to Dabney State Recreation Area, where they can begin a leisurely 2–3 hour float down the Sandy River’s cool, glacier-fed waters. The journey ends at Glenn Otto Park, where the shuttle picks riders up and returns them either to the outlet mall or to downtown Troutdale — giving visitors easy access to the city’s restaurants, cafés, and food carts.
“The Trout Route is a win for everyone,” said City of Troutdale Economic Development Coordinator Marlee Boxler. “Visitors get a stress-free way to enjoy one of our most beloved natural resources, local businesses get more foot traffic, and our parks and neighborhoods get relief from summer parking headaches. We’re thrilled to connect people with the Sandy River and our historic downtown in a fun and more sustainable way.”
How It Works
Riders begin their adventure at the Sasquatch Adventures store, where shuttle tickets and tube rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis or in advance online at floatthesandy.com.
The Trout Route operates Saturdays and Sundays through (and including) Labor Day. No reservations are required, though summer weekends fill up fast — early arrival is encouraged. Life jackets are provided for all floaters.
Shuttles depart hourly, with the first departure at 11:30 a.m. The last tube rental is at 4:30 p.m. and the shuttle makes it’s final pickup at Glenn Otto Park at 7:10 p.m.
Pricing
- Shuttle Only (bring your own tube): $10 per person
- Tube + Shuttle Combo: $19 per person
- 4-Pack Tube + Shuttle: $60
Project Background
This pilot project has been funded in part by a $150,000 grant from Travel Oregon. The grant supports innovative destination management strategies that improve community livability, expand access to outdoor recreation, promote responsible visitor behavior, and create sustainable tourism experiences that benefit both residents and visitors.
"The Sandy River Shuttle Pilot Program aligns with Travel Oregon's objectives to reduce high visitation pressures, increase community livability and expand outdoor recreation access," said Travel Oregon's Director of Stewardship Investments Michelle Woodard. "We consider investments like these to be a big win for not only our visitors but residents alike."
The shuttle will also provide affordable access to the Sandy River, reduce traffic and parking impacts at popular recreation sites, support local businesses, and encourage responsible recreation throughout the Troutdale and West Gorge community.
About the City of Troutdale
Located at the western gateway to the Columbia River Gorge, Troutdale is a vibrant city of approximately 17,000 residents nestled at the foothills of the Cascades along the banks of the Sandy River. Known for its proximity to both the Gorge and Mount Hood, Troutdale is proud to serve as a launching point for adventures in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
About Explore Troutdale
Explore Troutdale is the official destination management organization for the City of Troutdale, Oregon. Launched in 2020, Explore Troutdale promotes sustainable tourism that connects people to the region's natural beauty, outdoor recreation, historic downtown, arts, and local businesses. Guided by the Troutdale Destination Strategy, the organization works to balance economic opportunity with community livability by improving visitor experiences, protecting natural resources, expanding access to recreation, and strengthening connections between visitors, residents, and local businesses.
About Sasquatch Shuttle
Sasquatch Shuttle is a Columbia River Gorge-based transportation provider dedicated to improving access to the region's outdoor recreation destinations while reducing traffic congestion, parking demand, and environmental impacts. Through partnerships with local communities, public agencies, and tourism organizations, Sasquatch Shuttle delivers safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation solutions that support responsible recreation, reduce transportation barriers, and help protect the natural resources that make the Gorge a world-class destination.
Media Contact
Marlee Boxler
City of Troutdale
475 E. Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060
Phone: 971-280-0394
www.troutdaleoregon.gov | www.exploretroutdale.com
Sasquatch Adventures (shuttle operator)
Phone: (503) 852-9092
Email: info@sasquatchshuttle.com
sasquatchshuttle.com/tubing
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