TABLE MOUNTAIN - SOUTH LOOP THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2013
DIFFICULTY:
Strenuous
ELEVATION: Elevation gain -- 998 ft., highest elevation --
1370 ft., lowest elevation 900 ft.
HIKE DISTANCE: 8 miles, a loop
hike (or more accurately, like a balloon on a string!)
GENERAL LOCATION:
Near the town of Oroville
DESCRIPTION: If you like surprises, this is
the hike for you!! While Table Mountain is like its namesake, a flat table top,
it is actually a volcanic plateau with breathtaking canyons, crevices, vistas,
and waterfalls --- which are the surprises you will see on this hike. The area
is known primarily for being the premier wildflower area in Northern California
--- and the fields of colorful wildflowers will add significantly to your
enjoyment.
A sad note: On the March 10th prehike, the some of the
waterfalls were dry due to the lack of rain this year. Nevertheless, the
striking beauty of the area didn't disappoint the prehikers! The hike is
considered strenuous due to the difficulty of the cross country (off trail)
section and walking on the sharp volcanic rocks. See photos below. It is
important to wear hiking boots with good support and cushioning.
TRAVEL
TIME/DISTANCE: 1 hour and 30 minutes driving time and 73 miles one way. Return
time to Lincoln -- approximately 4:00 pm. A donation of $12 is suggested for
riders. Driving directions --- see below and print before coming to the hike,
if driving.
HIKE LEADER: Sue Geisler SWEEP: Scott
Thompson
SPECIAL NOTES:
FACILITIES: Portable bathrooms at the
trailhead.
PREPARATION FOR HIKE: 1) IF YOU HAVE ANY HEALTH
ISSUES, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR CONDITION BEFORE HIKING. 2) Bring a copy
of your ID (driver's license), health card, and an emergency contact name and
phone number with you on the hike. 3) Always bring 2 pairs of shoes, along
with a plastic bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.
4) Bring lunch, water, hiking boots, and trekking poles for crossing
one stream and traversing the volcanic rocks.
RISKS: One
section, a hill of a few hundred feet, is a very narrow trail with a steep
dropoff on one side, so if you have a fear of heights this hike would not be
recommended for you. Also, hiking on the volcanic rocks is challenging and
tiring, so be aware of that risk if planning on attending this
hike.
QUESTIONS: Call Sue Geisler at 408-1010.
MEETING TIME:
7:45 AM LEAVING TIME: 8:00 AM
Prehike Photos Driving Directions
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