Blue Pool/Tamolitch Pool
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Blue Pool is a very accessible trail close to Eugene, where folks can hike a 4.2 mile out and back section of the McKenzie River Trail to a beautiful spot where the McKenzie River comes out of the ground and forms what is called Blue Pool.
The McKenzie River Trail is a 26 mile long trail that runs along the McKenzie River, and is a very popular trail for hiking and mountain biking. There are various different sections of the 26 miles trail that you can hike, if you are not up to doing the entire trail. The Tamolitch Pool, also known as Blue Pool is where the river comes back up to the surface, after being underground for two miles. This creates a glass-like pool of blue-green water. |
(even though the second half is rocky, the trail is very well maintained)
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This trailhead is about 1.5 hours from Eugene. The trailhead is generally packed with cars, since this is an extremely popular spot for Oregonians as well as visitors to go. You do not need to pay or have a parking pass to park or hike there. (If you are hiking on the weekend and want to beat the crowds, come before 10am).
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(the McKenzie River)
(view of the McKenzie River from the top of the trail)
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The trail starts off in dense woods, and you hike along the river for a bit. The trail is well maintained, especially in the beginning, but you do have to watch your step because the roots can get slippery in rainy and icy conditions.
About 1 mile into the hike, the trail gets a bit steeper, and it starts climbing above the river. Here you get some stunning views of the McKenzie River from above. As the trail gets steeper, it changes from a sometimes muddy path with roots, to more of a dusty trail with many jagged lava rocks. Watch your step here. 
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(stunning view of Tamolitch/Blue Pool from the top of the trail)
2.1 miles from the trailhead, after not seeing the river for a while, you see the stunning blue pool. There is a way to climb down from the viewing cliff above, where you can scramble down and sit at the water’s edge. There is a less steep way to get down to the water by climbing across the dry rocky riverbed at the far end of the pool.
(Blue Pool from the bottom)
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(Blue Pool in December)
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Even though the water looks very inviting, especially after hiking on a hot day, once you touch it, you will realize why not very many people are swimming in it. The water is glacier cold, at a mere 40-42 degrees year round! (Please do NOT jump into the water from the cliff. A few people have died doing this, and it is extremely dangerous!)
Overall, this trail is doable for all age ranges and athletic levels. It is one of the most popular hikes in Oregon, and the Blue Pool is definitely worth seeing! On weekends the trail is full of people hiking, as well as mountain biking. Keep in mind that this is a 26 mile long trail that is mostly used by mountain bikers, so please be courteous towards them and if you can, step to the side when you see them coming. This is very tricky terrain for bikers, so if they don't have to stop, they will be very grateful.
Approximate hike time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Suggested seasons: Spring, summer, fall, winter
(This hike is beautiful all year round, however during the weekday and non-summer seasons is the best for avoiding crowds).
Trail usage: Very heavy
Directions: Take the McKenzie Hwy 126 14 miles east of McKenzie Bridge. If you are coming from the Hwy 20 junction it's about 10 miles south past the junction. Turn at the Trailbridge Campground sign, you will cross a bridge and quickly turn right onto a gravel road. After about a third of a mile park at the signs for the trail crossing.
Suggested seasons: Spring, summer, fall, winter
(This hike is beautiful all year round, however during the weekday and non-summer seasons is the best for avoiding crowds).
Trail usage: Very heavy
Directions: Take the McKenzie Hwy 126 14 miles east of McKenzie Bridge. If you are coming from the Hwy 20 junction it's about 10 miles south past the junction. Turn at the Trailbridge Campground sign, you will cross a bridge and quickly turn right onto a gravel road. After about a third of a mile park at the signs for the trail crossing.
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To get a more in-depth and personal view of this hike, watch the YouTube video.
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*All pictures are taken by Franziska Weinheimer
*Disclaimer: the trail descriptions, mileage, GPS tracks and difficulty ratings depicted on this website are never 100% accurate. Always hike at your own risk, using your own knowledge, equipment and common sense. Franziska Weinheimer/Hike Oregon are not responsible if you or anyone in your party gets injured or lost while attempting one of these or any other hikes.
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