Please Note: The Table Rock Wilderness is closed due to wildfire impacts. Check the Bureau of Land Management site for more information.
Distance: 7.2mi / 11.58km of trails Difficulty: Moderate Elevation: 4,881ft / 1487m |
A remnant of a lava flow which previously covered the entire region along the foothills of the Cascades, Table Rock Wilderness Area is quite unique. The steep and uneven terrain pays off by showcasing lush forest, rhododendrons , deer, elk , the northern spotted owl and two endangered plants, including; Gorman's aster and Oregon sullivantia. Plus, the fortress itself is a site to behold.
Table Rock Trailhead is the most accessible and shortest distance (3.3 miles) to the Table Rock (fortress) itself, however if taking this route you'll need to hike roughly 1 mile of blocked road and cross a moderately challenging boulder field near the base of the north side. There are a total of four different trailheads there are 17 miles of trails that provide access so you can decide before you go what route you prefer. On all these, there is no access to drinkable water so be sure to pack extra for this trip.
Whichever route you choose, the payoff at the top is worth the efforts as Table Rock Summit is the highest point in the Wilderness. Therefore, it offers amazing views of the entire Cascade Range. On a clear weather day you may witness: Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Rainer, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams Three-gingered Jack, Mt. Washington, Nor, Middle and South Sisters and Mt. Shasta
Explore this if you like:
Mountain views
Elevation training
Rhododendrons (seasonal)
Photo-ops of mountains
Endangered plants
Helpful Tips:
PLAN AHEAD - Hike early or on weekdays, don't hike alone, let someone know your plans, check the weather
PREPARE - Pack appropriately: sunscreen, light source, first aid kit, plenty of water, snacks/lunch and sunglasses
DRESS RIGHT - Bring lots of layers for the ever-changing Oregon weather, shoes with good tread (hiking boots), hat, rain gear (it is the PNW after all)
PACK IN/PACK OUT - Dispose of waste properly, pack an extra bag for any waste and remember poop bags for your dogs
RESPECT - Plants and wildlife, stay on trail and let plants grow. Respect seasonal closures and give trails time to regrow
"take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time" ― Aliyyah Eniath, The Yard