Blue Pool is one of Oregon’s most prized wonders, and for good reason. Located on the McKenzie River outside of Eugene, it’s blue waters keep people coming back for more. Also known as Tamolitch Falls, Blue Pool is one of the many stops along the McKenzie River Trail. Keep in mind that mountain bikers can use the McKenzie River Trail which is 24.5 miles long. It is also a great backpacking trail.
While Blue Pool may be confusing with its name Tamolitch Falls, is is actually a dry fall because during very rainy wet winter the river will flood over the lava bed. Roughly 1,600 years ago, a lava flow from an eruption of the Crater buried a three mile segment of the McKenzie River, so fascinating!
Over the last decade I have done this hike in every season, and go back yearly. It is a popular spot, so take this as a guide to experience it as you want to. Let’s get into the best time to visit, what to expect, and how to properly plan your trip.
Where Is Blue Pool in Oregon?
Just 1.5 hours from Eugene, Oregon or Bend, Blue Pool is located on HWY 126 along the McKenzie River. There are signs on the highway directing you to the trailhead.
Don’t follow your Google Map as it will not take you to the proper trailhead. Be sure to turn at the forest road 730 where the dam is-and if you see signs you know your at the right spot. After turning left if coming from Eugene, after crossing the bridge turn right and follow the road all the way down.
Parking is $5 or have your Northwest Forest Pass.
Leave No Trace
When visiting Blue Pool, be sure to abide by Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter and clean up after yourself when you visit. There are bathrooms at the trailhead but it is always a good idea to pack extra toilet paper in your car. This is an extremely popular hiking area so do not expect to leave your garbage here; pack it home with you and do not leave food scrapes outside.
When Is the Best Time To Hike Blue Pool?
Due to the popularity of this area, the sunny summer weekends are going to be the busiest time of year for visitors. Let’s break down each season so you have a feel for when to go! Rule of thumb anytime of year, start early! I find getting to the trailhead by 8am is almost always a safe bet.
Winter at Blue Pool can be a peaceful time to visit as there is typically less people on the trail. Keep in mind that the trail can get a lot of snow, meaning sometimes microspikes or snowshoes are necessary. It’s serene and beautiful, creating a different color blue hue on the water.
Fall at Blue Pool is one of my favorite times to visit. The leafs against the blue water at sunrise are truly spectacular. Plus, the colder weather keeps many people away.
Spring at Blue Pool is a wonderful time to visit before people start to visit Oregon come June. Again, starting early or going during a weekday is going to be the best time to visit. The trails are showing trillium flowers and blooms on the trees that we missed all winter. Keep in mind the trails can be muddy so wear proper hiking boots.
Summer at Blue Pool is going to be the busiest time to visit. Even during the week, many families are traveling to the area and kids are out of school. Going early, and during the week are going to be the best times to visit.
Pro-tip: pick a sunny day for your hike as that is going to grant the brightest blue hue of the water!
What is the Hike to Blue Pool Like?
The beginning of the hike is easy, through stunning old growth Douglas Fir forest. The hike takes you alongside the McKenzie River, granting peace and tranquility immediately.
Overall the trail is not too strenuous and can be perfect for most ages. There is some elevation gain after walking through the forested area as you hike away from the river getting closer to the lava rock portion of the trail. This is where you must watch your feet as there are many rocks along this portion of the trail.
Dogs are allowed on this 3.9 mile hike with 351 feet of elevation gain. Be mindful of other hikers, and always give the uphill person the right of way.
Keep in mind that once you get to the Blue Pool itself, if you aren’t looking up and keep hiking along the trail it can be easy to miss. There is a sign that can easily be missed telling mountain bikers to get off their bikes on this section of the trail. I suggest using All Trails to be your guide so you don’t hike right past it.
Can I Swim at Tamolitch Blue Pool in Oregon?
Many people ask, can you swim here? Currently, swimming is allowed at Blue Pool. But I will say, proceed with caution as the water never gets warmer than 37 degrees even in the hottest days of summer. There have been many search and rescue calls to this area, so much so they added cell phone service.
If you do want to go in, I advice going to the waters base instead of cliff jumping. Keep in mind the freezing temperatures of the water should be proceeded with caution and always do this with a buddy.
While the current is underneath the water, keep in mind that while Blue Pool in Oregon looks like it is a swimming hole, it does feed into a river. The water is over 30 feet deep at it’s deepest point which is why cliff jumping looks very enjoyable.
Camping Nearby
If your visiting in the spring and summer months, getting to spend extra time in the area by camping is the best way to enjoy it! Many sites are first come first serve and some you can book in advance. Summer in Oregon is busy so you want to hop on reserving as soon as they become available.
- Olallie Campground : Snag one of the sites on the lower loop if you can–these sites are right on the river just 4.4 miles from Blue Pool.
- Paradise Campground: 64 sites among old growth forest right along the McKenzie River.
- McKenzie Bridge Campground: 20 sites, all facing the McKenzie River in the cute town of McKenzie bridge.
- Coldwater Cove Campground : Clear Lake campground gives great easy access to the water.
- Horse Creek Lodge Camping: Campsites and cabins available to rent here at this beautiful property (where we got married)!
Pin For Later!
