Make it to the top of Upper Table Rock and it feels like the top of the world. Upper Table Rock and its nearby twin Lower Table Rock provide one of the most accessible and beautiful views that the Rogue Valley has to offer.

The Table Rocks got their names from their obvious shape. Upper and Lower Table Rocks were named for their position along the Rogue River (not height). Upper Table Rock has an elevation of 2,091 feet and is located slightly upriver  from Lower Table Rock with an elevation of 2,049

The Table Rock trails are used by more than 10,000 visitors annually. Over half of those visitors participate in guided hikes hosted through the Table Rock Environmental Education Program. This number is surprising to me; it would be a crowded day if you saw more than a handful of hiking groups on your climb to the top.

The rocks are home to dozens of animals and over 200 species of wildflowers. In an effort to protect the threatened species that live there, the rocks have been listed as an Area of critical Environmental Concern. While hiking, be on the look out for Western Meadowlarks, Rock Wrens, Turkey Vutlures and Hawks.

The Upper Table Rock trail is rated as easy/moderate by the Bureau of Land Management. The trail climbs 720 feet over 1.25 miles (one-way). This trail has some steep sections and very little shade with loose path in some spots. Allow 3 hours for a round trip hike

Lower Table Rock trail is .5 miles longer than the Upper Table Rock trail and climbs 780 feet over 1.75 miles (one-way). The trail is rated as moderately difficult by the Bureau of Land Management. This trail  offers more shade and has 8 interpretive panels along the way. The interpretive panels provide great information on the history of the land, flora & fauna of the region and explanations of geologic features. Allow 4 hours for a round trip hike

To provide access for all adventurers, an interpretive trail was created on Lower Table Rock near the trailhead. This allows families with young children, people with disabilities and seniors to safely enjoy the Table Rocks. This interpretive trail now includes a ½ mile section of trail that is easily accessible for all.

The ideal time to enjoy the Table Rocks are March – June. These late spring months offer the best time for viewing the wildflowers in full bloom while the weather is perfect and the mud is mostly gone from the trails.

541live tip: Bring lots of water, there is no water available on the trails. Weekend guided hikes are open to the public and lead by local volunteer specialists. Reservations for weekend hikes can be made through the BLM starting in March

Directions to Lower Table Rock:  From Interstate 5, take Exit #33 heading east one mile on East Pine Street and turn north at the signal onto Table Rock Road. Drive 10 miles to Wheeler Road and turn west. The trailhead is accessible off of Wheeler Road.

Directions to Upper Table Rock:  From Interstate 5, take Exit #33 heading east one mile on East Pine Street and turn north at the signal onto Table Rock Road. Drive 5.3 miles to Modoc Road and turn north. The trailhead is accessible off Modoc Road.