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    Tamolitch Falls - The Blue Pool

    4.9 (27 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Tamolitch Falls - The Blue Pool Photos

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    Caught a rainbow
    Sandy B.

    Insanely fabulous view! This was well worth the 2 1/2 mile hike. Bathrooms (portable) at entrance. Rocky terrain path - hiking shoes recommended and possible trekking poles. Shaded areas to keep you cool. Beautiful scenic views along the path.

    Kim R.

    Fabulous and fun trail! The falls part of Tamolitch only occurs occasionally, but the stunning blue pool is there for your enjoyment year round. We knew enough to arrive in the morning (8:30 on a Sunday) to avoid the crowds. Even in March the parking area was full by the time we returned at about 11:30. We had the trail and the pool to ourselves, but encountered hikers regularly most of the way back. Lots of dogs as well, leashed and not. The trail itself is very fun, but definitely not for everyone. It's pretty short at about 4 miles total out and back. The path is varied right now as far as conditions: dry, muddy, standing water, snow. The footing is varied as well, with loads of roots and rocks...you have to watch the ground and traverse carefully most of the way. Soaking up that gorgeous, crystal clear aqua pool at the end should make the trek worth it for most anyone. It's definitely something you need to see for yourself, no picture can do it justice. During our visit we had a great mirror, but we could also easily see the bottom. If you're a nature and forest lover a visit to the Blue Pool is a must. Stunning forest, trekking through the lava rock, a spectacular pool seeming to appear from nowhere and feeding a beautiful river...equal goooood times!

    Quinn A.

    100% worth it. I've got some tech notes further in this review, but for the executive summary let me just say, you will regret it if you have the opportunity to visit this pool and don't take advantage of it. Life is short and hard, take a day to immerse yourself in this beautiful place. I drove south from Portland on I-5, then east on OR-20 from Salem. The roads are maintained and well marked. Once you're on OR-126 you'll go about 9 more miles and see a green Tamolitch Blue Pool sign on the right. Keep going. That's not the entrance you want. Another couple minutes down the hill you make a right at Reservoir Bridge. Head in, bear right, gravel, trailhead, basta! Don't forget to hang your forest service pass from the mirror before you set out. There are bathrooms, and signs with trail info. The bike trail heads straight up (looks hard as get out), and the pool trail is to the right. All Trails has it as moderate but I found it pretty easy. Very little gain and only a couple of scrambles. A lovely walk along a clear path, river on one side, crazy fern covered deep forest on the other. As with most places there is a leash requirement for dogs, and nobody has their dog on a leash. Rules: leash you dog. Oregonians: chillax bruh, he's good. It's only 2.25 miles to the pool, take your time, but also take some water, a snack, an additional layer, and maybe a hat. I saw folks out there in tennis shoes. That's just not respecting what a whack nature can give you if you don't prepare properly. The pool is even better in person. It's a shade of blue you usually only find in super filtered IG photos. Breathtaking. It's crystal clear; you can count the rocks in the deepest parts. I sat there quietly and watched birds come and go, listened to the river, felt the wind. I stayed still long after the cold from the rock started to seep into my bones, unwilling to walk away from such transcendent beauty. When I finally pulled myself away and started back, I honestly felt fresher, lighter, unburdened. What a gift nature is. I hope you enjoy this hike!

    Will X.

    Beautiful trail slightly tucked away from the main road that is about 4 miles in and out and leads to a beautiful blue reflective pool at the end of the trail. The trail is so peaceful and things look beautiful from beginning to end. Certainly try to come during hour to see the beauty of the sun rays through the trees. Free parking near the trailhead and there's a separate path for bikers

    Andrea W.

    Really pretty trail! I came here right after it rained, so the trail was muddy, wet, and a bit humid - but still beautiful. I really enjoyed myself, saw a lot of people though which wasn't great. Parking was also way down the street although because I came a bit later, I managed to snag a spot pretty close to the trailhead. Trail is covered by trees and it goes along the river for a bit. Super pretty blue pool at the end!

    Shawn A.

    Fantastic spot! A must see spot if you're in central Oregon. It's a 2.5 miles hike up, relatively easy, and you are rewarded by this beautiful spot. Don't miss it!!

    Liz G.

    This place is absolutely breathtaking ! Not going to lie, I'm not sure if it was because I was on a time crunch or because i stopped EVERY two minutes to take a picture because it was so pretty !!!, but the hike did seem a little longer than I thought it would be on the way to the blue pool. But it was so so so worth it. Just a heads up, there is a lot of jumping and skipping around some main paths due to muddy trails. Definitely possible by anyone but it might be a barrier to those with knee problems. Did I already say how mesmerizing this gem was ? I will definitely be back when in Oregon :)

    Anita F.

    I'm honestly surprised that this little trail isn't more popular! My boyfriend and I stumbled across this hidden gem on Instagram and decided to stop by on our way to Portland. Let me just say that the photos do not do this beautiful place justice! If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and stop by. Not knowing the area we had a bit of trouble finding the exact location so here's a few tips based off my own personal experience. Once you drive in to the parking area, you'll see signs to parallel park on your right hand side. DO NOT park on your left. The parking doesn't look like a parking area, to us it just looked like a road. But just look for the small signs and you should easily find where to park. DO NOT drive up the little hill past the restrooms, if you pass the restrooms you drove too far. This leads me to my next tip. Yes, there are restrooms, no they aren't clean. Use at your own risk! Once you park, walk up toward the hill and the trail is on your right hand side just a bit past the map. We were the first ones to arrive on a Saturday morning. On our way back it was about 8am and there were plenty of people starting off their hike, so plan accordingly. Some locals told us that this place gets packed! The hike to the Blue Pool is about 2.08 miles one way according to my Apple Watch. I would call it a relatively easy hike but recommend hiking boots due to the lava rock. We had hiking shoes and our feet were still sore afterwards. COVID 19 PANDEMIC ADVICE: Hardly anyone we saw was wearing a mask. I recommend you arrive early to avoid large crowd interactions.

    John B.

    I took a trip to Oregon recently and oh my lord, I am having some serious withdrawals! Walking in to work Monday morning was rough lol. Anyway, I wanted to spend quality time in the great outdoors AND OREGON DELIVERED! Here are a few things to know about the trail. -Part of the McKenzie River National Recreational Trail, Tamolitch is best known for breathtaking views of a clear and gorgeously blue pool. So peaceful and serene. -When driving, in, do not park on the left side of the road closer to the trail. Several cars received tickets when during my trip. If you have trouble finding parking close by, drive back to the overflow lot. -Sometimes, there is a man and a woman selling drinks/snacks in the parking lot. They are really nice and chill. No fixed prices so pay what you want. -I HIGHLY recommend having a picnic once you get to the blue pool. -There are no rubbish bins at the falls so please take your trash back with you. Don't be THAT person... -During my hike, I was passed a few times by people who were in a rush to see the falls/pool. I implore you to take your time on the trail and appreciate the views of the forrest. -Unfortunately, this is apparently a rather popular destination so do try to arrive early to avoid the crowd. -Tamolitch is also not the best choice if you are in search of a challenge. I started at the reservoir and the hike was only about 2 miles to the falls. -Still, wear closed-toe shoes with grip and mind your footing. There are a few challenging spots along the trail as well as loose lava rock. A few of my friends fell and I nearly fell a number of times. -This trail is heavily shaded. I loved that as the trails in my area are mostly open and the sun just beats down during the summer. -Don't forget to pack bug spray. -This is not a swimming hole as the water is cold (37 degrees on average)! Muscles start to cramp up and it becomes difficult to move. Take a short dip if you like but don't expect to play in there as if it were your local swimming pool. -On that note, do not go cliff diving! One guy attempted it while we were there and we watched him struggle to swim back to shore. One bada** woman swam out to save him. -Pack a camera. Take plenty of photos. Collect memories instead of things. Enjoy! :]

    Not a filtered photo. So crazy blue it blue my mind.
    Whitney B.

    This place was magic. We did the short hike from the trailhead, probably 4 miles round trip to the pool. We didn't see a water fall, but it is mid August. Honestly the pool was magical enough without the waterfall.

    Kristen S.

    I still cannot get over how beautifully blue this pool is! We accessed it by parking at the Koosah Falls trailhead, then hiking the Waterfalls Trail down to the bridge at Carmen Reservoir, then picking up the McKenzie River Trail from there (there is a sign to the right of the restroom at the end of that road marking the spot where the trail begins). It was definitely a longer hike, but I am so glad we did it. I am sure it can probably be accessed more closely from the road, but we wanted to see the waterfalls also, so we figured we'd just hike the trail all the way down. Such a beautiful area, and there's nothing quite like being in the presence of trees all day :) Little tip: There's a bunch of chipmunks that hang out above the Blue Pool, and they REALLY like nuts! So fun to watch them scurrying around with their cheeks shoved full of snacks from their new friends :)

    Had to do a silly selfie, obviously
    Jess C.

    Oh man, I just realized you can Yelp anything, including the outdoors, sweet! Blue Pool is really something special. Surrounded by-god only knows how old-trees, towering high above, shining their wisdom down upon you.... I hiked it alone on a rainy Sunday and had a lovely solitary experience the majority of the time and only saw a few couples and some single runners along the way. From far away, blue pool is really nothing to get excited over, but just wait...up close it is majestic!

    The blue pool!! so blue and clear!
    Vivian W.

    Tamolitch Falls, aka "The Blue Pool", is a hidden gem located within the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, approximately 3 hours south of Portland. To get to the Blue Pool, we started at the Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls trail. Just google the Sahalie Falls and Google Map should take you to the trailhead. The trail to the Blue Pool is roughly 8 miles roundtrip. Sahalie Falls can be seen right by the parking lot. As you follow the steps/trail further down the river, you'll find Koosah Falls in about 0.4 miles. Both of the waterfalls are not tall but are extremely powerful. It was super neat to see the gallons of water flowing right down the waterfall and into the McKenzie River. It was like water coming out of a fire hydrant. As you continue along the blue-colored McKenzie River, you'll stumble upon the Carmen Reservoir. Just FYI, there is a restroom here. From the Carmen Reservoir, turn right and continue on the McKenzie River Trail (you'll see a small sign). You won't see the river here as it has gone underground. It is about a 3 mile through the Douglas fir forest until you get to the Blue Pool. Once you've made it, you'll realize it was all worth it. Tamolitch Falls used to be a waterfall until the McKenzie River changed its course and went underground, leaving just a pool of standing water, hence the name "Blue Pool". The water is so neon blue and clear that it looks more shallow than it really is. On a hot summer day, people like to jump into the pool. You can find a trail to get down at the top of the "waterfall". Just be careful as I heard the water can be quite cold. My friend and I started the trail around 3pm and didn't get back until 8pm. I swear I thought we were going to have to hike in the dark since the sun was setting but we eventually made it out. Thank goodness! It was also drizzling when we hiked this trail but despite the rain, I still enjoyed myself. The scenery was beautiful and there's always something to look at along the trail.

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    Ask the Community - Tamolitch Falls - The Blue Pool

    Review Highlights - Tamolitch Falls - The Blue Pool

    Get there early, if you go in a weekend or you might have to walk 1/2 mike just to get to the trailhead.

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    Koosah Falls

    Koosah Falls

    4.7(11 reviews)
    4.7 km

    I recommend parking at the Koosah Falls parking lot- there is ample parking available there…read more Parking at Sahalie Falls is overcrowded and some folks had to park across the highway. There is a dig out restroom available in the parking lot. The trails are very well maintained and the overlooks offer excellent views of the falls. The path between the falls offers views of the BLUE McKenzie River. Across the river you will see the McKenzie River Trail with runners and hikers. There are several unmaintained paths going from the trail to the river- wander down at your own risk! Definitely a low effort high reward hike! Do not miss this one!

    Koosah Falls sits right along Waterfalls Trail beside the McKenzie River. It's not difficult to…read morereach and there are a bunch of overlook viewpoints with benches offering different perspectives. The first few lookouts are partially obstructed by trees and branches, but eventually as you keep walking, you're afforded undisturbed panoramas which are special, imo. And before walking over to this Koosah Falls (since it's barely strenuous, I wouldn't even consider it hiking), you'll immediately confront another terrific looking waterfall, and that's Sahalie Falls. You get two scenic waterfalls by simply stopping here for an hour or so. That's pretty efficient in my opinion, lol. I showed up in late July around 3:30pm and although the small parking lot was mainly full, I was still able to nab a spot. It's free to visit at your own accord. This Highway 126 situated next to the McKenzie River is the epitome of exploring around nature and is "one of Oregon's most famous recreation areas". Just 3.5 miles up the road from here at Koosah and Sahalie Falls is the iconic Tamolitch Falls - Blue Pool. That should not be missed as well. Including hiking to the colorful Blue Pool, it takes about half the day to visit. Back to this Koosah Falls...while walking along Waterfalls Trail, you'll have opportunities to relax at any point and soak up the McKenzie River forest surroundings. It's a pleasant setting. Extra notes... - Koosah Falls is 64 feet tall but appears more grand in real time. Sahalie Falls is about the same length. - Although you can't reach down to the base of Koosah Falls, Sahalie Falls is accessible and I suggest climbing over the railing for closeup views. It's not hard to do. Last thing I can say, I discovered Koosah and Sahalie Falls through TikTok mentions. TikTok is a great source of information for adventurers looking to find hidden gems among the great outdoors. Thank you to TikTok.

    Photos
    Koosah Falls - Taking a moment to appreciate the Koosah Falls views.

    Taking a moment to appreciate the Koosah Falls views.

    Koosah Falls - Koosah Falls

    Koosah Falls

    Koosah Falls

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    Abiqua Falls Trailhead - The ropes section of the hike wasn't as daunting as initially feared.

    Abiqua Falls Trailhead

    4.4(10 reviews)
    80.5 km

    Abiqua Falls! I just visited this beautiful 92-foot waterfall sort of in the middle of nowhere in…read moreOregon but located about 50 miles south of Portland. I have a lot to relay about the experience. This review could take the maximum 5000 words, lol, but I'll try my best to keep things as concise as possible... There are many questions about what to expect from Abiqua Falls. Even myself, I had concerns and doubts. But...I survived and it's an easy adventure to a very secluded waterfall. I'll try and answer the following questions... - Can you drive to the trailhead? From my POV, it's a VERY ROUGH ROAD down to the bottom. There's one specific section (and you'll recognize it immediately) where the road is practically cracked in half with divots and potholes. I actually witnessed a Ford Explorer trying to drive over it on the way back up and it was a big struggle for them! They eventually got past it, but I thought they were stuck. You absolutely need a high clearance 4x4 vehicle to make it down to the base to access the trailhead to Abiqua Falls. For me...I have a Suburu and I parked 2 miles away at the Abiqua Falls "Parking Lot" (according to Google) and then walked 2 miles down to the bottom and 2 miles back up. There was no way I was risking a flat tire, especially with not knowing how to change a tire and there barely being cell phone reception in the area. Btw...just to arrive at the Abiqua Falls parking lot, you must first drive 1.5 miles on a dirt road. For me, dirt and gravel roads are like nails on a chalkboard. I cringe driving over them. - Where is the trailhead located? This is a good question because there's no specific sign for Abiqua Falls, but it's easy to discover. Here's how...the road down to the bottom only goes so far. Eventually, you'll confront a white fence where you can leave your car (if you drove). But...there's a clear opening to the forest on the left-hand side of the road as you're going down. People say it's hard to find, but truly...you can't miss it. If you're any sort of outdoors enthusiast, it's simple. The hike is 7/10ths of a mile out and back. That's it! Again...there's barely any hiking involved, especially if you drive down to the base. - What is the ropes section like on the trail? I must be transparent. I read other people's AllTrails and Google reviews, and this can be deceiving. Let me explain... There were many reviews saying how the ropes section is intense and you're practically repelling down the cliff side. WRONG! WRONG! WRONG! It's an easy pathway. The ropes are no big deal. I have a serious fear of heights, and I casually made my down to the creek. Using the ropes was necessary for the most part, but it wasn't scary. It didn't strain my hands. IT IS NOT STRESSFUL! I'd rate the trail as easy - moderate. Do not fear the incline/decline slope. There's nothing of that sort. It is 100% safe to get up and down the trail. Once down at the bottom of the creek, hang on the left hand side. You'll notice the trail continuing around the bend that leads straight to Abiqua Falls. It's easy. I had no problems at any point in time. I've been on much, much rougher trails during my explorations. I visited on a random Thursday morning at the end of August and pretty much had the falls to myself. There were a few people that came along towards the middle of the day. I believe if you're coming to Abiqua Falls, you must bring a bathing suit and towel. I think it's a right of passage. The waterfall is scenic and the setting is charming, but other than admiring the views and maybe having a picnic, you must take the plunge in the pool of water that Abiqua Falls splashes down into. - Was the water cold? Absolutely! Lol, I was dreading the cold water but made the premeditated decision that I was swimming to have a fun memory. It wasn't even hot outside as well, but I forced myself in and I'm glad I just did it. Obviously, your body adjusts to the cold and it's not too extreme. Overall, the ambiance at Abiqua Falls was liberating. The canyon walls sort of engulf you from high above. You're standing at this dramatic waterfall and when the sun reaches above the tree line, you can notice some slight coloring in the waters which can make for a magical moment. In all, maybe you need a few hours to hang out at the falls before returning to the ropes section and heading back up to the trailhead and road. Again, the hike back up to the top is barely strenuous. It's a slight workout. Most folks can handle it. Lastly, if you're someone who left their car all the way at the top of the road (like I did), it is possible that you may get offered a lift from those hikers who took a chance driving their cars down to the base. If so, hop in, lol. It'll save time not having to trek back uphill. In the end, I enjoyed getting to witness Abiqua Falls. The journey to arrive here was not as daunting as I initially anticipated. And again, from my POV, be kind to your car tires. Don't risk the drive.

    Extremely steep. Rope system down to the bottom. I ended up fracturing my spine in 2 places due to…read morea fall. But if you're able to make it then go. Physical fitness is a MUST But a stunning falls to see

    Photos
    Abiqua Falls Trailhead - The trailhead to Abiqua Falls. It's located on the left hand side of the road.

    The trailhead to Abiqua Falls. It's located on the left hand side of the road.

    Abiqua Falls Trailhead - This is Abiqua Falls, a fantastic under the radar  Oregon waterfall.

    This is Abiqua Falls, a fantastic under the radar Oregon waterfall.

    Abiqua Falls Trailhead - Had Abiqua Falls Trail pathway saved on my phone, just in case I got lost.

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    Had Abiqua Falls Trail pathway saved on my phone, just in case I got lost.

    McKenzie River National Recreational Trail

    McKenzie River National Recreational Trail

    4.9(16 reviews)
    18.4 km

    A beautiful hike. We did the waterfall loop, which is about a 3 mile hike that takes you by Koosah…read moreand Sahalie Falls. We brought the dogs and the kids, and we had a blast. The scenery was stunning and the trail condition was perfect. We'd definitely come back here again.

    What a gift it is to be surrounded by so much natural beauty. Today I was able to hike Sahalie…read moreFalls, Koosah Falls, and Tomalitch Blue Pool, all in one out and back 10.5 mile trek. The drive to the trailhead took 2.5 hours from my home in Portland, so we left by 6. If you arrive after 9 or 10 you have to deal with the crowds. Sahalie Falls was first and can be accessed very easily from the parking lot - no hike required. Keep this one in mind if you have mobility limitations. If you're up for it, hit the trail here. A short distance along the Mckenzie Creek will take you to Koosah Falls. Gorgeous, with falling turquoise water. Want a scare? Look up the fools who cliff jump from here. Incredible. After that you pass by the reservoir, then have a nice hike along a soft pine needle path down to Tomalitch Blue Pool. Again with the cliff jumping. Don't do it! So dangerous. But do carefully follow the pink ribbons over the rock ledge and down to the shore. You can swim if you dare in the 38 degree water. At least dunk your feet. The hike back to where you parked at Sahalie is 5 miles. Pack a lunch, a lot of water (I finished my 3 liters), and enjoy the day.

    Photos
    McKenzie River National Recreational Trail
    McKenzie River National Recreational Trail
    McKenzie River National Recreational Trail

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    Tamolitch Blue Pools - You've passed the blue pools if you see this bridge!

    Tamolitch Blue Pools

    4.7(13 reviews)
    16.4 km

    This is my second time completing this trail. It is very popular so make sure to get here early if…read moreyou don't want to park far from the trailhead. There are dig out restrooms available at the trailhead as well as a trash bin. The trail is easy though there are some boulders you need to scramble over in the lava fields. You will walk along a beautiful river and cross a couple foot bridges and streams along the way. Once at the blue pool you will truly see that the photos you've seen online are not edited! The water is unbelievable. You can walk down to the water but it is not recommended to jump in unless you are experienced. The water is 30 degrees year around and several injuries have occurred here- so be wise and have fun.

    It rained the whole drive over it seemed! But the trees kept the hike dry. Free parking and porta…read morepotties at the front entrance. The trail is a fairly easy one but you have to watch where you step. The first .75 miles was quite flat but the next .75 miles was fairly rocky. My husband and I both rolled our ankles at different points. Once you get to the actual spot to see the blue pools, there is one sign that says no biking. At that point, veer off towards the water area to see the pool! We missed it and were in the zone of walking and we ended up going too far! Don't go to the bridge that only has one side to hold on to. That means you've gone too far

    Photos
    Tamolitch Blue Pools
    Tamolitch Blue Pools - Standing at a ledge overlooking the Blue Pool.

    Standing at a ledge overlooking the Blue Pool.

    Tamolitch Blue Pools - Mossy rocks

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    Mossy rocks

    Proxy Falls - Upper proxy falls

    Proxy Falls

    4.8(9 reviews)
    18.5 km

    It's a hike for those with good footing. Pets, children, and most people can do this hike. It goes…read moreup and down over lava beds in some portions. Probably not so good if it's been raining as there can be slippery parts. The reward is the Upper and Lower (two different paths, not well marked) Proxy Falls, which are breathtakingly beautiful. The Lower Falls has at the bottom, a lot of logs to cross and isn't recommended for some as it's difficult although it arrives at the base of the falls for that must-get photo opp. There are actually better view points before you get to the bottom. The Upper Falls, by contrast, is beautiful and the water frigid, temps chilly even in the middle of summer. Youngsters and oldsters alike can enjoy this hike but it's actually a moderate hike for some; know your limits as you're far away from help if you get stuck. There are a few picnic spots, and many wild huckleberries on the trail. Bring a water bottle if it's hot. Temps vary over 30F on the trail any time of the Spring or Summer. Yes, it's worth it! Note that this leg of road isn't good for long trailers or RVs, there are very sharp switchbacks that make them dangerous or even impossible to navigate the curves. Quite a bit of parking is available. There is a park fee, payable later or the Golden Age Pass makes it free as it's a National Forest resource.

    Looove this trail! It's a short loop that takes you by 2 gorgeous waterfalls. The setting is…read morediverse and fun, starting off winding through a lava rock field and leading into the beautiful forest, off-shooting to both Lower and Upper Proxy Falls. If you read the info at the trailhead you'll see that the loop is meant to be a one way trek, however it seems that most missed that part as we encountered plenty of hikers coming at us. Not a biggie, as except for the lava section the trail is decently wide. You'll get a great view of Lower just past the directional sign, but I highly recommend if you're able to continue on down and right up the base of the falls. It's a bit steep heading down, and you've got to shimmy over and squeeze under a few downed trees, as well as using a massive downed tree-bridge to get across to the base. It's a bit of work, and probably not ok for everyone but definitely worth it. Lower Proxy is simply stunning and jaw dropping from right at the base. Upper is just a quick trip from the main trail, clearly marked by signage as well. While not quite the spectacle of Lower, it's definitely pretty and easily accessed. There are some picnic tables and a decent amount of shoulder parking at the head. The 1 1/2 mile trail is so much fun...it's like an adult playground...climbing around the rocks and trees, good times. From the gorgeous and varied scenery you encounter along the route to the stunning falls, Proxy Falls Trail is a don't miss.

    Photos
    Proxy Falls - Upper Proxy Falls

    Upper Proxy Falls

    Proxy Falls - Upper proxy falls

    Upper proxy falls

    Proxy Falls - Upper proxy falls

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    Upper proxy falls

    Tamolitch Falls - The Blue Pool - hiking - Updated May 2026

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