Tumalo Creek Loop

This Loop begins at the Tumalo Falls View Point; however, the trail continues for another 3 miles. Although the first waterfall is certainly spectacular, this creek has cascading falls about every half mile. These water falls are indicative of the famous geology in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Tumalo Creek makes its way over ancient lava flows from Broken Top that create stair case type formations resulting in a series water falls along the creek.

These waterfalls also go hand-in-hand with a steady gain of altitude. you will cross several bridges as you zig zag over the creek and eventually you will find your self at a literal cross roads, this is Happy Valley. Cross the bridge and follow signs for trail 370. There is a clear 4X4 road do not follow this road there is a narrow foot traffic trail that heads north- northeast this is the trail you want to follow. 

You will meander through thick Doug Firs, and the occasional Lodge Pole for a few miles before reaching yet another cross roads. From here follow signs that point towards triangle hill loop. These are signs used for the 4X4 road and snowmobilers. You will come across a trail for foot traffic marked Mrazek Trail follow this for a mile and a half until you reach the Farewell trail junction. It is marked by posted with arrows toward Shevlin Park and Tumalo Falls. Follow the arrows toward Tumalo Falls (3.2 miles).

Once on the Farewell trail you won't have to worry about anymore junctions. Keep in mind both the Mrazek trail and the Farewell trail are also popular for mountain bikers so keep an ear open. After a few miles you will leave the Lodge Poles and Doug Firs for more open Ponderosa and Manzanita forest. On a clear or partly cloudy day you will be able to see to the south Mt. Bachelor just poking out behind Tumalo Mountain and to the west Broken Top in the distance.

This trail comes down the north wall of the Tumalo Creek valley and you will end on the other side of the bridge from the trailhead. This loop makes for a great day hike with some pretty spectacular view. During July and August it can get crowded, I prefer Mid September through October to avoid conflicts with Mountain Bikers.