Tamolitch Blue Pool
Linn County, Oregon
Details
Distance
3.56 miles
Elevation Gain
253 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by The Outbound Collective
Easy hiking with a scenic trail to the Tamolitch Pool. This beautiful turquoise pool at the end of the hike makes this short trek even more worth it!
The hike out to Tamolitch Pool, or "Blue Pool," is 2 miles each way and follows the McKenzie River to a lava flow pool. Off Highway 126 14 miles east of McKenzie Bridge, turning into the Trailbridge Campground, drive right 1/3 of a mile to the trailhead. The trail is relatively flat, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the lush Douglas Fir forest that winds you to the pool.
Once you arrive, you can view the pool from several locations, and if you cross a section of lava rocks, you can access the bottom of the pool with moderate climbing. During the summer, people often swim in the turquoise waters, but the water stays in the 30's year-round offering a chilly dip. After a substantial amount of rain, part of the lava rocks will turn into a waterfall flowing into the pool, which is a rare occasion. If you're still feeling adventurous after your hike, Koosah Falls and Sahalie Falls are only a few miles north of Tamolitch Pool along Highway 126 and well worth your time.
Tip:
- The trail is shared with mountain bikers, so be alert of your surrounding and respectful of others enjoying the path
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Tamolitch Blue Pool Reviews
My fiancé and I hiked this last fall and it was absolutely stunning! I had hiked it previously by myself a couple years before on the 4th of July and it was really busy. The trail is pretty easy, some slight hills, but good for families. When we went last fall, there were only a few other hikers we passed so it was nice to have that somewhat secluded feel! There were lots of beautiful leaves and fall colors to enjoy!
5.0
We really enjoyed the hike to Blue Pool! The terrain along the way is unique with lava rocks to climb over, and the beautiful river keeps you cool. Photos can’t begin to capture the sapphire blue waters below! Great way to spend the morning.
5.0
The hike isn’t bad at all... even if you’re just slightly athletic. We saw plenty of people on the trail of all ages. Once you get to the cliff it’s a beautiful view of the Pool! You’ll see people jumping into the VERY cold water. My friend and I ended up being some of them! It was worth it and I’d do it again! Suggestion for gals who want to do it but are hesitant about swimming in freezing water: we swam to the cliff and climbed back up.
5.0
These photos look nothing like how it looks in spring. At first I thought I was in the wrong place but then I realized it's just because most of the pictures I've seen have no waterfall in them. The waterfall also blocks the way to get down to the pool but it's still a great viewpoint. totally gorgeous though! Easy hike and go in the morning/evening to avoid crowds.
5.0
This is a relatively easy hike. Drive to the trail head first and look for parking or park just off the highway for an extra 1 Mile added to your hike. It can get hot in the summer so pack 2 liters of water, it's pup friendly and MTN bikers frequent this trail. Getting to the bottom is a slight challenge. The water is very cold around 40 degrees.
5.0
When is the perfect time of day during an August day to see this pool so that the sun hits it directly and there is no shade from the trees on the pool?
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Bigelow Hot Springs
Sahalie and Koosah Falls Loop
Koosah Falls Trail
Hike around Clear Lake
Belknap Hot Springs
Mountain Bike the McKenzie River Trail
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