I submitted an earlier article on the rarity of Tamolitch Falls, back in June, followed up by a comment in early July to state the fact that the falls had dried up.

My husband and I walked the two mile trail back into Tamolitch Pool on Sunday, September 14th-2008.

We made this hike with great anticipation, knowing the falls were gone, but the amazing Tamolitch Pool and all its glory, would still be there waiting for us and trust me, we were not disappointed.

Our hike as before took us through a forest of old growth Douglas fir, hemlock ferns, Oreogn grape with and vine maple, both with early signs of Fall colors. Our trip in took a little longer than before as I wanted to document more of the trail, plus we were in-undated with cyclists, of which, we gave way to on a regular basis.

It is a fairly easy trail for the most part, but riding a mountain bike along this trail, you need to have a lot of endurance, to dodge and or jump over tree roots and lava jutting out of the path as well as avoiding a collision with the lava walls jutting out alongside the path.

As a temperature of 90 deg F was forecast, it was great to hike under the canopy of Douglas fir, cedar and hemlock. We were able to keep fairly cool, until the lava beds as the rocks seem to hold the heat and are more than happy to share with hikers as they pass by. While not a really hard hike and there is a slight elevation, it is not wheelchair accessible and it is advised to carry plenty of water, especially if it is a warm day.

On our arrival at the pool, we just stood there, in total awe of what was before us. The blue and greens of the pool were out of this world and the clarity of the crystal water, which is clearly evident by these photos, just shows how well Mother Nature blessed this fine state of Oregon. A place I have loved to call home, these last 9 1/2 years.

To get to the Tamolitch Pool, take Highway 126 east, and turn left at the Trail Head Reservoir, once over the bridge keep following the road to the right, leading to the trail head, just a short drive from the highway.

Enjoy the photos and the hike, should you ever make the trip.

Dianne Fawbush