Hike To Tamolitch Falls: Oregon’s Famous Blue Pool
Tamolitch Falls, better known as the “Blue Pool” is a phenomenal place that you simply must put on your Oregon bucket list! The sapphire-colored pool has become a world-wide sensation and is now one of Oregon’s most popular hikes!
Tamolitch Falls, aka the Blue Pool, is situated in the McKenzie River Valley between Bend and Eugene. If you’re looking for day trip ideas from Bend or Eugene, be sure to add this hike to Tamolitch Falls! A day trip from Portland is also possible since Tamolitch Falls is a doable 2.5 hours drive away.
Whichever direction you are coming from, the drive will be stunning because the Blue Pool is located on the McKenzie River Highway (Highway 126), one of the most scenic roads in Oregon. This scenic byway features unending pine forests as it travels alongside the beautiful peacock-blue waters of the Upper McKenzie River.
This part of Oregon has so much to offer adventurous travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. From mountain-biking to fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and more! Of course there are miles of hiking trails in Central Oregon to explore including challenging but rewarding hikes like the trail to the summit of Oregon’s third tallest mountain, South Sister.
Basically what I’m saying is that you should plan to spend a few days in the area, if you can swing it. There are several campgrounds near Tamolitch Falls including a few rustic resorts such as Clear Lake Resort and Belknap Hot Springs Resort.
If you’ve only got one day to spend in the area, know that the hike to Tamolitch Falls is totally worth the day trip! The good news is that the hike is quite short and fairly easy, so you’ll have plenty of time to spend at the Blue Pool.
Here is everything you need to know about hiking to Tamolitch Falls. From exactly how to get there, to hiking trail details, and interesting facts, we’ve got you covered!
What’s so cool about Tamolitch Falls aka Blue Pool?
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Blue Pool is its color. It’s absolutely spellbinding! The color of the water is a striking topaz blue, and quite literally looks like a gemstone set in the midst of a mossy, emerald forest!!
The water in the Blue Pool is also very clear. In fact, the water here is so clear that the pool gives the illusion of being shallow when it is actually very deep! Also, although the water appears glass-like and seemingly still, the water is moving. And moving very quickly at that.
This amazing natural wonder was created about 1,600 years ago, when an eruption of the Belknap Crater buried the McKenzie River under a flow of lava. The segment of the river that was buried, about three miles, now flows underground. Water from this underground river surfaces at the Blue Pool, seeping upwards through lava rock.
One of the reasons why Tamolitch Falls, aka the Blue Pool has become such a popular place to visit in Oregon is that this natural wonder is super easy to reach! The hike to the Blue Pool is only four miles roundtrip and the trail is mostly flat and easy. This means almost anyone can reach the pool, and the more people that see it, the more news travels about how awesome this place is!
Blue Pool Trail Details
- Distance: 4.2 miles return trip
- Elevation Gain: 300 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 2 hours
- Trailhead: McKenzie River Trailhead
When Is The Best Time To Hike Tamolitch Falls Trail?
There is no bad time to visit Tamolitch Falls, aka “The Blue Pool”. The trail to Tamolitch Falls can be accessed year-round and hikers can choose to visit the Blue Pool throughout the seasons. Each season offers something different; from lush summer vegetation to gorgeous fall colors, and forests blanketed in snow.
That being said, summer is the most popular time to hike to Tamolitch Falls. In summer, you are almost guaranteed great weather, which in Central Oregon means big blue skies and zero percent chance of rain! Also, summer sunshine makes the sapphire-blue color of the Blue Pool more vivid which helps to create striking and dramatic photographs.
Unfortunately, summer draws big crowds to the Blue Pool, particularly on weekends. If possible, try to plan your visit to Tamolitch Falls during a weekday if you plan to go during the summer. Otherwise get there very early to ensure your get yourself a parking spot.
Winter can be a beautiful time of year to visit, but be prepared and dress in warm layers. Also keep in mind that the colors of the pool may be muted under grey clouds and overcast skies.
Why Is Tamolitch Blue Pool So Blue?
The water temperature of the Blue Pool hovers around 38°F year-round. That means the water in the pool is so cold that even microorganisms cannot survive in it. This lack of organisms is what keeps the water in the Blue Pool so crystal clear.
Another reason the water in the Blue Pool is so pristine is because the water is filtered through porous lava rock as it seeps to the surface, which helps filter out dirt and other small matter.
Can You Swim In The Blue Pool?
You can swim in the Blue Pool if you really want, however we strongly advise against it. Although the water is not quite freezing, it is still really, really, cold! The risk of getting hypothermia here is very high, and there is a chance that your body could go into immediate shock upon entering the pool.
Hypothermia comes on quickly so it’s best not to take your chances with going for a quick swim here. It’s a long hike back in the shade so you are not likely to warm up on the way back. In addition, if you do need help, note that cell phone signal here is not very good, and even if you are able to call out for help, it could take emergency crews a few hours to arrive.
Does Tamolitch Falls Flow Year-Round?
Tamolitch Falls is a seasonal waterfall which means it only flows during certain times of the year. The best time to see Tamolitch Falls flowing is during spring after the winter snowmelt and early summer. Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Blue Pool will always be beautiful as it is fed by an underground river.
How To Hike To Tamolitch Falls
There are two trails that will take you to Tamolitch Falls aka Blue Pool. One of the hiking trails begins south of the pool from Trail Bridge Reservoir, and the other hiking trail begins north of the pool from Carmen Reservoir.
The most common route taken begins at Trail Bridge Reservoir which is the shortest hiking trail. This trail follows the McKenzie River all the way to the Blue Pool so it’s a little more scenic than the other route taken from the north.
Coming from Carmen Reservoir, the trail follows the McKenzie River too, however it is the buried under lava segment of the river. This hiking trail does not offer any river views. Also keep in mind the trail from Carmen Reservoir is a much longer hike at 6.8 miles. Whichever route you choose to take, be sure to arrive early to get yourself a parking spot because this is a very popular hike!
The hike to Tamolitch Falls from Trail Bridge Reservoir travels through an old growth forest full of Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, and Western Red Cedar trees. Vine maple and Big-leaf maple trees fill the understory. The forest floor is covered in lush green ferns and moss-covered rocks. Yes, it indeed looks like a fairy-tale type of place where pixies, elves, or gnomes might live.
Since you’ll be hiking in the shade, you may want to bring a long-sleeve t-shirt or a sweater if you get cold as easily as I do.
Most of the trail follows alongside the fast-flowing McKenzie River. The trail is well-maintained and very easy to follow. All you need to do is stick to the trail and you’ll eventually reach the pool after hiking for two miles.
This trail is very easy and flat the majority of the way so is great for hikers of all skill levels and children too. The only thing you need to keep an eye out for are a few pesky tree roots that could potentially send you on a short trip to the forest floor.
Once you reach the pool, you’ll have two options. Sit down and enjoy the views from the large rocks that overlook the pool and waterfall, or head towards the embankment on the other side of the Blue Pool to get a closer look at the amazingly clear water.
The Blue Pool sits inside a cliff-rimmed basin. The cliff walls surrounding the pool are quite steep, so be careful when approaching the edge. Especially in the spring when the ground can be muddy and slippery.
Do you want to get right down beside the pool? You’ll need to hike over the waterfall ledge and follow the trail down to the far side of the pool. Getting right beside the water’s edge is not an easy feat, and will require scrambling over a few large rocks and going down a steep (but short) section on the ‘trail’.
Tips For Hiking To Tamolitch Falls
- The first tip, and most important, is to arrive at the trailhead as early as possible! The parking lot is small and fills up very quickly, especially on weekends. Because this hike is relatively short, you could plan to hike out in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. However keep in mind that the pool won’t be as vivid-blue if it isn’t under full sunlight.
- Even though this trail is well-maintained, there are many exposed tree roots along the way. If possible, wear hiking boots. That way if you trip and kick a tree root, it won’t be as painful.
- As always, bring water with you. Check out this cool HydroFlask if you don’t have a water bottle yet or are in need of a new one. But since there is plenty of water on this trail, you could also filter your own water with this filtering water bottle, or just bring water purifying tablets.
- This hiking trail is shaded almost the entire way so sunscreen is not imperative. However, if you do choose to use sunscreen I recommend using this sunscreen which is octinoxate & oxybenzone free.
- Swimming is strongly discouraged! The water is a chilly 38 degrees Fahrenheit and it’s very easy for hypothermia to set in after only a few minutes swimming in the Blue Pool. And cliff diving especially is a big no no! There have been several people who have died here in recent years from doing so.
- If you are new to the great outdoors, please remember to always pack out what you pack in! This means do not leave any trash behind, including food scraps.
- There are two pit toilets at the trailhead but none along the trail or at the pool.
- If you plan to hike with your dog, remember he/she must be on a leash at all times.
Permits & Fees
There is a $5 parking day use fee which you can buy online here or at the trailhead (bring exact cash). Alternatively, if you have an annual NW Forest Pass or National Parks/Interagency Pass, you can use either of those too.
Other Places To See Near Tamolitch Falls
- Todd Lake: A gorgeous lake near Bend, Oregon.
- South Sister: Oregon’s third tallest mountain.
- Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: Oregon’s most scenic drive.
- Shaniko Ghost Town: A ghost town in Oregon with well-preserved buildings.
How To Get To Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool)
Tamolitch Falls is accessed via the McKenzie River Trail. Although there are two trailheads to reach Tamolitch Falls, the most commonly used by hikers is the trailhead located at Trail Bridge Reservoir. This trailhead is located on the McKenzie River Highway (Highway 126) in Central Oregon. From Highway 126, turn onto Forest Road 730, then turn right at the junction.
Where To Stay Near Tamolitch Falls
If you want to stay in the area but don’t want to camp, there are a few options but they are in the town of McKenzie Bridge which is about 15 miles south. Here are the best accommodations:
Right on the McKenzie River is this Romantic Riverfront Sanctuary, complete with Douglas Fir floorboards and a cozy river rock fireplace! The master bedroom is downstairs and offers a private bath with tub, while the bedroom upstairs has a large window seat looking over the river.
The River Haven is another home right on the McKenzie River but this house has a huge covered porch that sits right on the river’s edge! There is a dining table on the porch so you can enjoy your breakfast, lunch, and dinner with water views.
More Oregon Travel
35+ Bucket List Worthy Things To Do In Oregon
11 Fascinating Day Trips From Bend To Help You Explore Central Oregon
How To Hike South Sister: Oregon’s Third Tallest Mountain
Discover Shaniko Ghost In Oregon: Former “Wool Capital of the World”
7 Best Coffee Shops In Bend To Get Your Morning Buzz
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Is The Most Scenic Drive In Oregon
Have you hiked to the Blue Pool? What did you think? Please share your thoughts and advice with other readers in the comments below. And if you’ve got any questions about visiting Tamolitch Falls, feel free to ask!
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