Timeline
14:08
Drive Cherokee Rd for 6.3 miles to the unmarked parking area on the left at the green cattle gate. Arrive early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds, allowing time to park and prepare for the hike.
15:08
Walk 14 minutes east to the North Table Mountain Preserve. This nature reserve offers a gentle introduction to the landscape before tackling the more strenuous trails.
17:08
North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
Continue your journey to the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. Spend the next two hours hiking the trails toward Ravine and Phantom Falls. The spring weather provides the best conditions for viewing the wildflower fields and the cascading water.
19:08
North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
Return to the plateau or a scenic overlook as the golden light begins at 19:08. The low angle of the sun highlights the textures of the wildflowers and the rugged terrain, providing the best photographic opportunities of the day.
Local tip
Read up on the hikes and consider picking up the book 'Wildflowers of Table Mountain' by Mackey & Bills before you go to identify the species you will see.
Check before you go
- The area is free to enter.
- Prepare for hiking conditions and bring water.
- Check the route to Cherokee Rd if you are not familiar with the area.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Oroville (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).