One of the most popular and magnificent mountain biking trails in Oregon is the 26-mile McKenzie River Trail.
Take Forest Road #730 off Oregon Highway 126 (Bridge Trail Campground exit) to catch one of the many - and my favorite - McKenzie River trailheads. This path takes you two miles into Tamolich Falls and one of the most beautiful and (I say) magical places in Oregon, known amongst locals as the Blue Pool. Time and minerals have worn a deep, cold, aqua-blue pool at the base of the falls that is simply breathtaking when you stumble upon it.
To find the trailhead, turn right at the (sort of creepy) power plant and follow the dirt road about a half-mile. You’ll see a hiking sign and wide spot in the road to park on the right. Take the trail upstream, right, through the forest and along the lava rocks as you follow the river ever receding below your feet. Go. Whatever it takes, before you leave Oregon, go to this place. And be happy that it’s not a well-kept secret anymore.
Link to the McKenzie River Trail website.
Nearby Lodging
Belknap Hot Springs
McKenzie River Mountain Resort
