When you need to find some solitude and reconnect with nature, Oregon’s hiking trails are just what you need. Here’s a beautiful trail that leads you to the most incredible hidden oasis. Check it out:
To reach this hidden oasis, you’ll take the McKenzie River Trail in the Willamette National Forest. To find the trailhead, take the McKenzie Highway for about 14 miles east of the McKenzie Bridge, then cross the bridge near the Trailbridge Campground and watch for the trail signs.
Nina Gonzalez/Alltrails
This gorgeous trail is 3.7 miles out and back, and you’ll walk through some beautiful old-growth forest along the way.
Jason Chappell/Alltrails
The trail follows along the McKenzie River, and you’ll find several spots with excellent river views.
Jonathan Spring/Alltrails
Because parts of this trail are rocky and steep, it’s considered moderately difficult. Make sure you have on adequate hiking shoes and bring along plenty of water. The trail is dog-friendly, and you’ll also share it with mountain bikers.
Summer Doak/Alltrails
Take your time to enjoy the incredible scenery as you go — this hike is enchanting.
Nancy Lomeli/Alltrails
While you’ll share this popular trail with others on a busy Saturday afternoon, if you hike early in the morning, or on a weekday, you’ll likely find a little more solitude and peace.
Matt Bryant/Alltrails
You’ll soon reach Tamolitch Pool, a.k.a. Blue Pool. Yes, it’s really this color. It’s absolutely stunning, isn’t it?
Pam McNary/Alltrails
Tamolitch Falls can be beautiful, too, depending on the time of year. For much of the summer, the waterfall is diverted underneath the rocks and flows directly into the pool from below. It’s a steep climb down to the pool, so watch your step.
Jennifer Cumberworth/Alltrails
The water in Tamolitch Pool is a frigid 38 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s crystal-clear because no organisms can grow in water this cold. The pool looks like it’s just a few feet deep, but it’s actually more than 30 feet deep in spots.
Megan Haffner/Alltrails
While you might think that this is the perfect swimming hole, you’re better off taking pictures and admiring its beauty from afar. The water is so cold that jumping in can cause your body to immediately go into shock, taking your breath away and causing painful muscle cramps and even heart failure. It can be extremely dangerous to swim here.
Ajay Sama/Alltrails Though the pool is deep in spots, jumping from the surrounding cliffs can also be deadly. Over the years, people have been seriously injured and some have even died from hitting their heads on rocks. Enjoy the spectacular scenery from the banks of this pool.
Doesn’t this pool look enchanting? If you love places like this, you might want to join our Oregon Nature Lovers Group on Facebook, where you can see some gorgeous photos taken by local photographers, and even post your own to share.
Nina Gonzalez/Alltrails
Jason Chappell/Alltrails
Jonathan Spring/Alltrails
Summer Doak/Alltrails
Nancy Lomeli/Alltrails
Matt Bryant/Alltrails
Pam McNary/Alltrails
Jennifer Cumberworth/Alltrails
Megan Haffner/Alltrails
Ajay Sama/Alltrails
Though the pool is deep in spots, jumping from the surrounding cliffs can also be deadly. Over the years, people have been seriously injured and some have even died from hitting their heads on rocks. Enjoy the spectacular scenery from the banks of this pool.
If you’re looking for some more hikes with stunning destinations, take a look at this ultimate bucket list for anyone who loves waterfall hikes.
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