RAINBOW, Ore. - Firefighters are battling the 2-acre Blue Top Wildfire in the popular Blue Pool area of the McKenzie River Ranger District on Thursday. This trailhead experiences heavy use, particularly during the spring/summer months. Forest Service Road 2600-740 road off Hwy 126 and surrounding area is closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The TripCheck website provides roadside camera images and detailed information about Oregon road traffic congestion, incidents, weather conditions, services and … 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. Walk slightly uphill to trailhead sign, begin walking upstream. Find us on Facebook Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Is any of the information on this page incorrect? Alert: COVID-19 updates and travel advisories, February 27, 2015 (Updated March 13, 2017). 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. But its beautiful blue waters only hide the fact that it is one part of nature that should only be seen and never touched. A Forest Protection Officer will contact any unauthorized person with a vehicle that is parked in the closure area. Here are key restrictions to keep in mind: Oregon State Parks. Any repeat violators will be issued a Violation Notice. Tamolitch Blue Pool via McKenzie River Trail is a 3.7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Blue River, Oregon that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Trail closed to motorized vehicles and stock. Blue Pool, also known as Tamolitch Pool, is where the McKenzie River seeps to the surface through underground lava fields that flowed across the landscape eons ago. 4431 Highway 20 Nostalgia is alive along this byway; you feel it when you pass through two of Lane County’s 20 covered bridges: Goodpasture – at 165 feet, Oregon’s second longest – and Belknap Bridge, a river cross-over since 1890. There are 24 sites with picnic tables, toilets and drinking water for both tent campers and smaller RVs (no hookups). This creates a glass-like pool of extremely cold blue-green water. Area Status: Open. 44125 North Santiam Highway SE These gorgeous gems have been found in the Beaver State. OR 97477 Tamolitch Blue Pool has two access points – the main one is at Trail bridge Reservoir – about midway on Oregon’s famous McKenzie River Trail . No story about Oregon swimming holes is complete without a nod to Oneonta Gorge, roughly 37 miles from downtown Portland. The trailheads experience heavy use, particularly during the spring/summer months. See accessible adventures at Detroit Lake & the McKenzie River Valley, Forest Service Home | USDA.gov | recreation.gov | Recreation Customer Service Standards | USA.gov | Whitehouse.gov, Plug-Ins | FOIA | Accessibility Statement | Privacy Policy | Important Notices | Information Quality, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/willamette/recarea/?recid=82063. 541-822-3381, Middle Fork Ranger District people have died jumping in and/or trying to swim in it. The trailhead is generally packed with cars, since this is one of the most popular hikes in all of Oregon. Outdoor pools open from 10am to 9pm on weekdays and from 8:30am on Saturdays and 9am on Sundays, closing at 7:30pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Deep within the Siskiyou Mountains are dark, twisting passages that await your discovery. We’re heading up the McKenzie River Valley into the rugged mountains where a gentle trail lead us to one of the state’s most remarkable sites, called Tamolitch — or the “Blue Pool.”. Neptune Pools, in business since 1959, providing the Portland area with superior pool installation, repair & replacement, that customers want and expect. Some trees are over 1,000 years old. Tamolitch, which means “tub” or “bucket” in Chinook. Belknap Hot Springs is located on the McKenzie River, one of Central Oregon’s hidden jewels. Detroit, OR 97342 The trails to each are always open and easy to reach from the highway, and the falls are beautiful when surrounded by snowfall during the winter months — just keep in mind the parking lot is not plowed. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Metro is taking steps to protect its staff, the community and you. It is 101 acres in size. Map showing recreational areas. We specialize in building custom in-ground gunite swimming pools, spas and water features. While it is a relatively short hike, the rough, rocky terrain can be challenging so sturdy, closed-toed footwear is recommended. Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool) See Trail pages for more information. “The bridges were generally made of wood back in the 20s and 30s, but if you covered them the timbers would last twice or three times longer in Oregon’s wet weather,” said Trendler. Any persons who refuse to leave the closed parking area, or who refuse to identify themselves, can be subject to arrest. There are no services or facilities such as garbage or restrooms so please pack-it-in pack-it-out. Wet may be what you’ll get when you reach the plunge pool world of Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls. Don’t Miss Terwilliger Hot Springs – crystal clear water, 6 soaking pools, restrooms. 503-854-3366, Sweet Home Ranger District Inquire to today about our pre-approval! Tamolitch Blue Pool Trail Map (geoPDF) 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. Two hikers — photo pro Steve Terrill and Oregon newcomer Roy Nuesca — brought cameras and tripods to capture the sites along the 4-mile out-and-back trail to reach the Blue Pool. No parking is allowed. And is open to the public from 8 am to Sunset. Accessing the pools is a gift in and of itself – it requires an easy 7-mile loop hike through the Opal Creek Wilderness, a low-elevation ancient forest that represents the largest old-growth forest in the western Cascades. The well-maintained forest trail meanders over soft duff and carves through lava rock as it guides hikers upstream toward the azure waters of Tamolitch Falls and Tamolitch Pool aka Blue Pool. August 16, 2017. NOTICE: Forest Service Road 2600-740 road off Hwy 126 and surrounding area is closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic. McKenzie River Trailhead: Tamolitch Blue Pool. Grant McOmie is a Pacific Northwest broadcast journalist, teacher and author who writes and produces stories and special programs about the people, places, outdoor activities and environmental issues of the Pacific Northwest. “I am looking around all of the time,” said Terrill. The rest of the 26-mile trail remains open. ©2020 Travel Oregon | The official guide to Oregon travel and tourism information. 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. (Note: This trailhead experiences heavy use, particularly during the spring and summer months.). The bucket-list hike starts with a massive logjam crawl, continues with a cool walk through the chest-deep water in Oneonta Creek, and ends in a blissfully frigid pool at the foot of a picturesque waterfall. It’s known as Tamolitch, commonly referred to as the Blue Pool in Oregon. Oregon Caves Cave Junction, OR. The Blue Pool is a round body of water that sits mysteriously at the base of the waterfall, Tamolitch Falls. Cross the river and turn right on FS Road 2672-655, travel ½ mile to parking area. 13K likes. From this trailhead it is a 2 mile hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool. To know which sites are open or were impacted by wildfires, check out the park status map and this wildfires article. Blue Mountain Pools has been serving Portland, Oregon and Vancouver Washington as the premier swimming pool builder contractor for over 40 years. Go straight at the junction, northeast up Forest Road 655 to McKenzie River Trailhead – Tamolitch (Blue Pool). If someone mentions Oregon, you are likely to think of the foggy coast or weird, cool Portland, not fiery gemstones created after volcanic fire centuries ago. Tamolitch Blue Pool in Oregon. The trails less traveled are the ones I cherish most, and Oregon has a bounty of places to choose. It’s an array of gorgeous subjects here beside the Blue Pool.”. The trail to Tamolitch Blue Pool can be accessed from Carmen Smith Reservoir (3.3 miles north) or from McKenzie River Trailhead: Tamolitch Blue Pool (2.1 miles south). A Forest Protection Officer will contact any unauthorized person with a vehicle that is parked in the closure area. Forest Order 06-18-01-17-09. “You are driving along the river and you get these glimpses of an absolutely crystal clear river all along the way, and lots of greenery too.”. Sweet Home, OR 97386 The splash pad, swim beach, picnic reservations and boat rentals are closed until further notice. I’ve never seen anything like it, even in my home state of Hawaii. While it is not against the rules to jump in, there are a few safety considerations: The steep cliffs surrounding the pool are 10-60 feet tall and the average water temperature is 37 degrees Fahrenheit. ... crowds mar Mckenzie River's Blue Pool. Follow us on Twitter, Supervisor's Office Rounding the bend at Leaburg Lake, the dam is open, the lake is drained and the McKenzie River is flowing through the lake. The McKenzie River Scenic Byway may leave you spellbound as you explore this timeless transition into Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. 57600 McKenzie Hwy Geese rested on the exposed land. Turn left on FS Road 730 (at the sign to Trail Bridge Reservoir). Eons of acidic water seeping into marble rock created and decorated the wondrous “Marble Halls of Oregon.” Join a tour, get a taste of what caving is all about, and explore a mountain from the inside and out! This trailhead provides access to: McKenzie River National Recreation Trail #3507. At that temperature, you can become hypothermic in less than 10 minutes. Blue Pool is a spot where the river comes back up to the surface, after being underground for two miles. The trail is 26 miles long and about half that distance is below the snow line, so you have good opportunities for hiking and biking anytime. Only available at nearby campgrounds and day use sites. Learn more about geospatial PDFs (geoPDF) and mobile apps here. This magical spot is said to have formed several thousand years ago, as a result of lava erupting from nearby Belknap Crater – which stopped the McKenzie River in its tracks. A fifth generation Oregon native, Grant’s roots run deepest in the central Oregon region near Prineville and Redmond where his family continues to live. After a full day exploring, stop by Takoda’s Restaurant in nearby Rainbow to savor freshly baked pizzas or the restaurant’s famous mac ‘n’ cheese. No parking is allowed. The trails less traveled are the ones I cherish most, and Oregon has a bounty of places to choose. Practice Leave No Trace Principles during your visit. We’re heading up the McKenzie River Valley into the rugged mountains where a gentle trail lead us to one of the state’s most remarkable sites, called Tamolitch — or the “Blue Pool.”. Blue World Pools, Inc. may be able to obtain swimming pool financing for you whether your credit is impeccable or less than perfect. Over the years, we have built pools indoors and outdoors on nearly every terrain. Mountain bikers: yield to hikers, expect congestion, and use caution through the rough, rocky terrain. The McKenzie River Valley is a year-round recreation destination, and a centerpiece for many is the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail. And it’s so convenient — not even five minutes from your car to the falls.”, It will take a bit longer to reach Oregon’s one and only “Blue Pool.”. The upper access point is at Carmen Reservoir. – Level of difficulty for the Tamolitch Blue Pool hike McKenzie River Trail. Many of the 257 Oregon State Parks sites remain open for day-use and camping, with reduced services. “The water just comes shooting out like a giant fire hydrant; a huge wall of water any time of year. Marion Lake Trail [CLOSED] is a 4.9 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Cascadia, “They’re easy to access, so anyone can see them,” said Trendler. Detailed descriptions of campgrounds in the Willamette National Forest. “It is scenic and it is beautiful,” noted Meg Trendler of Eugene, Cascades & Coast. Open 365 days of the year with our two mineral hot spring pools and many acres of gardens including the extravagant Secret Garden, Belknap offers a relaxing experience not soon to be forgotten. The water, a chilly 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.8 C) on average, reflects the surrounding cliffs covered with alder and evergreen trees. Thirty-seven miles west of Sisters, Oregon, in the heart of the Willamette National Forest, is Oregon’s well-known Blue Pool. But it's okay to use Oregon and opals in the same sentence. From here it is a 3 mile hike down to Tamolitch Blue Pool. If you’re looking for a campsite to call your own, that’s no problem — there are 14 US Forest Service Campgrounds along the McKenzie River. Open Dawn to dusk. “There are literally thousands of photographs — reflections off the water, the alder trees and white bark, the lichens and moss, the downed wood somewhat discolored from the water…! Any repeat violators will be issued a Violation Notice. “So very clear and clean, and it looks so refreshing! Length: 145 miles / 232.0 km Time to Allow: Plan to spend from 6 hours to several days exploring this area. Nuesca was impressed by the deep turquoise and stunning clarity of the water, which combine to create something special. warning: the blue pool is extremely cold and very dangerous. Although the water used to flow to the Oregon Tamolitch pool from a waterfall, it now flows from underground, through lava fields — creating the blue color. A large grassy area and picnic space act as common area for recreation. Near to the mountain bike tracks of Oakridge, Salt Creek Falls and Oakridge, this campground is in proximity to all the activities the Willamette National Forest offers. From McKenzie River Trailhead: Tamolitch Blue Pool: From the McKenzie River Ranger Station, take Highway 126 east 10 miles to Trail Bridge Reservoir. It … Blue Pool Tamolitch Falls - McKenzie River, Oregon | A popular swimming hole known for its amazingly clear blue water and frigid temperatures The forest and all of its flora and fauna are a … Bring our travel magazine along. The beauty of Tamolitch Falls (also known as Blue Pool) has always made it a popular spot. From McKenzie River Trailhead: Tamolitch Blue Pool: Current Fire CLOSURES: What's Open on the Willamette, COVID-19 Safety Closures and Restrictions, Carmen Diversion Reservoir closed through 2021, Trail Bridge, Lakes End Campgrounds and Smith Reservoir Closed Through 2021. 541-782-2283. Eight Oregon state parks and campgrounds, including some of the state's most iconic places, won't reopen this summer, due to budget cuts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some state parks have closed due to high winds, downed trees and wildfire danger. One of my favorites is Delta Campground (open April 18 to October 19) because it boasts a marvelous hiking trail through an ancient forest stand, with scores of gigantic Douglas fir trees that date back more than 500 years. Tamolitch Blue Pool - McKenzie River Trail, McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. Map Information. Description Aufderheide Drive was named after Robert Aufderheide, the Willamette National Forest Supervisor from 1954 until his death in 1959. McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413 Tamolitch Blue Pool is a gorgeous gem-like body of water at the base of Tamolitch Falls. Oregon’s Tamolitch Falls, famously known as Blue Pool, is a popular summer attraction for hikers, tourists, and thrill-seekers. We have a lot of ideas for you. Each agreed that the McKenzie River provides an unmatched canvas to create lasting memories with camera and lens. With the popularity of Blue Pool, please help protect this area and preserve the experience for you and for future visitors. Area Status: Open. Let's keep in touch. Please plan your visit accordingly and arrive early or late in the day when there is less traffic. 46375 Highway 58 Download the Pacific Northwest Forest Service Recreation App! The waterfall now only flows over the waterfall ledge a few times a year. Turn left (west) on Forest Road 732, crossing the McKenzie River. You’ll be astounded by the color of the Blue Pool, so slow down and savor the Oregon outdoors. Directions: From McKenzie Bridge, take Highway 126 east 13 miles to Trailbridge Reservoir. You do not need to pay or have a parking pass to park or hike there. I hope that I can return one day and stay longer — maybe even go camping.”. Ready to hit the road? 3106 Pierce Parkway Suite D Blue Pool Trail, as its known to locals, is an easy hike to one of the most visually stunning secret spots in Oregon. Seven more pool shapes—rectangle, kidney and freeform shapes, as well as enhanced details and specs—for a total of 15 pools; Adds patent-pending G2 and G3 Crystite colors for a total of 12 color options; Allows you to use the app anywhere you happen to be (even indoors) thanks to a mini AR tool that can “build” the pool on any surface Blue Lake Regional Park is open 8 a.m. to legal sunset. Westfir, OR 97492 The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Blue Lake Regional park is located in Fairview, Oregon near the south bank of the Columbia River. 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. Tamolich Blue Pool / via Bend Oregon Stock. 541-225-6300, Detroit Ranger District Springfield. 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.”. The beauty of Tamolitch Falls (also known as Blue Pool) has always made it a popular spot. Any persons who refuse to leave the closed parking area, or who refuse to identify themselves, can be subject to arrest. 541-367-5168, McKenzie River Ranger District The McKenzie River Scenic Byway may leave you spellbound as you explore this timeless transition into Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. To contact us, call 1-800-547-7842 or email.