Table Rocks + The Table Rock Trail

Fairy shrimp, dwarf wooly meadowfoam and rare birds – there’s a place in Southern Oregon near Medford and Ashland where you can experience this nature trio. It’s a singular geographic feature near Medford called the Table Rocks, and it’s a terrific place to experience the state’s amazing diversity. Table Rocks sees some 60,000 visitors roll through annually, and for good reason.

It’s a crossroads for biology, history and culture. The volcanic slabs - from a 700-year-old volcanic explosion at Mt. Olsen – are home to hundreds of rare bird and plant species. The slab also used to be home to Native Americans of the Takelma tribe who lived in the region 15,000 years prior to European-American settlement.

Come visit the Table Rocks in the spring, when migratory birds flock to the slabs. Hikes wind through the area, including steep rocky treks, and relaxing strolls across the mesa. Expect stunning views, including glimpses of the Rouge River far below. Most hikes are free, but are of varying difficulty, so do a little research before taking the whole family up.

There are FREE guided hikes offered by the Land Conservancy and BLM...click here for more details and to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hike-lower-table-rock-registration-59249179892?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

Directions to the Upper Table Rock trail from Interstate 5:

  • Take Exit 33 at Central Point.
  • Travel east on East Pine St. for 1 mile.
  • Turn Left (north) on Table Rock Road.
  • Travel 5.3 miles to Modoc Rd. and turn Right (north). The well-marked trailhead and parking lot is located another 1.5 miles on the left. 

Directions to the Lower Table Rock trail from I-5:

  • Take Exit 33 at Central Point.
  • Travel east on East Pine Street for 1 mile.
  • Turn Left (north) on Table Rock Road.
  • Travel 8 miles to Wheeler Rd. and turn Left (west). The trailhead is located another 0.5 mile on the left.

For more information about the Table Rocks Management Area visit http://on.doi.gov/1UntUbK.

Add to the Discussion (1)

Rick

5 years ago

This sounds like a fantastic area of Southern Oregon to explore, Nastacia. We look forward to checking it out when we're down there next month!

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