The beauty of Tamolitch Falls (also known as Blue Pool) has always made it a popular spot. This cliff-rimmed basin was renamed “Tamolitch,” in 1933 by William Parke, a recreational engineer for the Willamette National Forest, inspired by the Chinook jargon word for “bucket.” Although the flow of the falls is typically only seen in spring, the pool continues to be fed by underground springs. Today, this rocky section of the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail from Trail Bridge Reservoir north along the McKenzie River and the stunningly clear water of the pool draw hundreds of hikers, photographers and mountain bikers.
A lava flow from Belknap Crater 1,600 years ago buried a 3 mile (4.8 km) stretch of the McKenzie River between Carmen Reservoir and Tamolitch Falls. The river resurfaces at Tamolitch Pool at the base of dry Tamolitch Falls, seeping up to the surface through the porous lava, creating a pristine turquoise blue colored pool. The water, a chilly 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.8 C) on average, reflects the surrounding cliffs covered with alder and evergreen trees. While the falls are dry the majority of the time, during wet winters the river can flood over the lava bed and Tamolitch Falls will flow.
With the popularity of Blue Pool, please help protect this area and preserve the experience for you and for future visitors. Practice Leave No Trace Principles during your visit. There are no services or facilities such as garbage or restrooms so please pack-it-in pack-it-out.
Details
While it is a relatively short hike, the rough, rocky terrain can be challenging so sturdy, closed-toed footwear is recommended.
- Length: From Carmen Smith Reservoir (3.3 miles); from Trailbridge Reservoir (2.1 miles)
- Elevation: begins at 2200 ft. elevation and ends at 2450 ft. elevation (south to north)
- Difficulty: Moderate
