Table Rocks

Located just north of Medford, the Table Rocks offer a popular hiking destination with panoramic views of the Rogue Valley. The site consists of two distinct lava formations, Upper and Lower Table Rock, remnants of lava flows that capped the valley floor about seven million years ago. The area holds significant cultural value for Indigenous Peoples, who view the rocks as a place of creation stories and traditional resource gathering.

Visitors can choose between two main trails. The Upper Table Rock Trail is a 2.8-mile round trip with a gain of about 720 feet, offering views of Mount McLoughlin and Pilot Rock on clear days. The Lower Table Rock Trail is longer at about 5.6 miles round trip with a similar climb and features interpretive stations. Both trails are rated easy to moderate and take roughly two to four hours to complete.

The best times to visit are from March through May for wildflower blooms or September through October for cooler weather. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead, but there is no water on the trails, so hikers must bring their own. To protect the fragile ecosystem, which includes endangered species in vernal pools, strict regulations are in place. Dogs, horses, bicycles, and off-highway vehicles are prohibited. Rock stacking and cutting switchbacks are also forbidden. The area is managed collaboratively by The Nature Conservancy and the Bureau of Land Management. Visitors are asked to stay on marked trails to preserve the natural landscape and ensure a safe experience for all.