Upper Table Rock

March 1, 2020

First day into March and we couldn't resist the sunshine outside despite the cool temps.  But that weather combo made it a perfect day to hike Upper Table Rock as noted by the many people who had the same idea as we did.

Time for some last minute Winter hiking

The view from the top

The Upper Table Rock trail starts off by climbing and really never stops till you get to the top.  The trail itself is much more rocky than Lower Table Rock and the dirt portion of the trail is as hard as rock.  Having said that, thanks to efforts to clear out some of the undergrowth, the trail is lined with wildflower plants and currently had Fawn Lilies in bloom along portions of the trail, while Grass Widows were the flower at the plateau.

Grass Widows

The last and only Vernal Pool still on Upper Table Rock

Looking out across the top of Upper Table Rock.  Only Vernal Pool is off to the left.

Since we have hiked Upper Table Rock many times, we try to hike up the 1.4 miles to the plateau as quickly as possible.  Today's effort came in at 29 minutes. Once at the top though, we always take time to walk the loop and enjoy the views.  Evidently the BLM has been at work putting up more wooden rail fences and signs in an effort to keep folks on the trail and off the fragile habitat on the plateau.  That doesn't stop everyone, but hopefully it  will stop some folks.

Some the new fencing with signs.

A cairn sighted by the Pitcairns

Heading up, up, up the Upper Table Rock trail

On the way down the trail we stopped multiple times to view Fawn Lilies, Western Buttercups and even noticed Frittillaria plants.  It is still a little early for masses of wildflowers, but by mid March this trail and plateau (as well as Lower Table Rock) would be a great hike if you enjoy wildflowers.

Trekking Together
Glenn and Carol