From Oakridge, proceed east on Hwy 58 for 10 miles to Blue Pool Campground. Blue Pool is a gorgeous and unique part of Oregon’s landscape, and it is truly breathtaking to see it in-person. Blue Pool Trail, as its known to locals, is an easy hike to one of the most visually stunning secret spots in Oregon. 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.

From here it is a 3 mile hike down to Tamolitch Blue Pool. Tamolitch Blue Pool has two access points – the main one is at Trail bridge Reservoir – about midway on Oregon’s famous McKenzie River Trail. It was pretty easy but about 2 miles so you definitely feel like you're getting some exercise. Temporarily Closed June 15-19, 2020 for maintenance — closure impacts McKenzie River Trail between Trail Bridge reservoir to Tamolitch Falls. 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.” The trails less traveled are the ones I cherish most, and Oregon has a bounty of places to choose. Fishing and swimming are popular activities. A frigid 37 degrees, it is best for viewing only. From this trailhead it is a 2 mile hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool. Although it's difficult to… Now a dry fall, the basin is filled from underground, resulting in a dazzling clear pool of amazing colors. Be careful on the steep cliffs surrounding the basin. This 24-site campground is conveniently located adjacent to Oregon State Highway 58 in an old growth forest alongside Salt Creek. The upper access point is at Carmen Reservoir. 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. Near Blue Pool the river flattens out and fishing is popular for stocked rainbow trout. We at That Oregon Life just want people to be as safe and as educated as possible, and to always leave nature the way you found it. This is not to dissuade hikers, tourists, or campers from visiting this beautiful place. A large picnic area along the creek offers picnic tables, a large grassy area for both passive and active recreation.

The blue pool is a nice place to sit and relax before turning around and hiking another 2 miles back to the car. Kayaking and rafting are options here. The hike to the blue pool was great.