File:Upper Table Rock (15267426253).jpg

Upper and Lower Table Rocks are two of the most prominent topographic features in the Rogue River Valley. These flat-topped buttes rise approximately 800 feet above the north bank of the Rogue River in southwestern Oregon. Upper and Lower refer to their positions relative to each other along the Rogue River; Lower Table Rock is located downstream, or lower on the river, from Upper Table Rock.

The Table Rocks were designated in 1984 as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) to protect special plants and animal species, unique geologic and scenic values, and education opportunities. The remarkable diversity of the Table Rocks includes a spectacular spring wildflower display of over 75 species, including the dwarf wooly meadowfoam (Limnanthes floccosa ssp. pumila), which grows nowhere else on Earth but on the top of the Table Rocks. Vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi), federally listed as threatened, inhabit the seasonally formed vernal pools found on the tops of both rocks.

The 4,864-acre Table Rocks Management Area is cooperatively owned and administered by the Medford District Bureau of Land Management (2,105 acres) and The Nature Conservancy (2,759 acres). Memorandums of Understanding signed in 2011 and 2012 with the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians allow for coordinating resources to protect the Table Rocks for present and future generations. A cooperative management plan for the area was completed in 2013.

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.

The Upper Table Rock trail is approximately 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 736 feet. Allow 2 to 3 hours for the entire hike. It is an easy/moderate trail with some steep sections. Good sturdy shoes and water are strongly recommended. There is no water available on the trail or at the trailhead. This trail is suggested for first time hikers.

On your ascent up the trail keep an eye out for the unique monolith rock formations. These irregular shaped monoliths may have been part of the original lava flow. On a clear day the summit offers a spectacular panoramic view that includes the Rogue River valley, Mt. McLoughlin, Mt. Ashland, and Pilot Rock.