Tamolitch Falls
When I heard about Tamolitch Falls, also known as "Blue Pool", just two and a half hours from Portland, Oregon, I knew I had to make a day trip! When I arrived, I found a decent amount of parking near the start of the trail. The trail is a breath-taking 2 miles each way (about 4 miles total, in and out) of waterfalls, bridges, bends and tall pines with a slight elevation gain. I'd definitely recommend coming prepared with some snacks, water, and comfy hiking shoes for this one, but overall it is not too strenuous.
The destination? A beautiful seasonal waterfall, active in early spring after snow melt and early summer. Whether or not the waterfall is active when you visit, the "Blue Pool" is strikingly scenic regardless. Tamolitch falls pours into "Blue Pool", inside a cliff-lined basin where the McKenzie River emerges from a lava tube, creating that crystal-clear, pristine blue color.
At the end of the trail, you arrive at the top of the falls, overlooking this basin. I went on this trip solo, but did make a couple friends along the trail. If you're adventurous like we were, you can also continue hiking around the basin, down towards the icy-cold water for a quick cold-plunge. Whether or not you decide to enjoy these frigid blue waters by jumping in, this destination is definitely worth the trip!
After a short swim, we hiked back up to the top of the falls, took some photos and began hiking the two miles back to the parking lot. Returning to my vehicle, I had originally planned to drive back to Portland that evening, but found myself wiped out from the hike and car-camped in the parking lot. I didn't have any issues but I am not sure what the regulations for that are there. Overall, my experience in Oregon was very chill with regards to that sort of thing and I often don't mind a night under the trees and stars here and there. If you'd prefer, there are also hotels like the Holiday Inn Express in Eugene and Arbor Inn Motel close by, and plenty of AirBnB's in the area as well.
The next morning, I woke up and made the short trek back to Portland.
- Attraction · Cascadia
58 reviews
