WHY IT’S GREAT At 4,881 feet, the broad, flat summit of Table Rock sits like a giant anvil above the rugged Table Rock Wilderness outside of Molalla. A relic of ancient volcanic flows, the imposing basalt rock promontory is hemmed in by steep hillsides flush with mountain hemlocks, old-growth firs, and clusters of rhododendrons and iridescent, late-blooming gentians. Guarded by steep switchbacks and an immense boulder field that often remains snowbound until well into summer, the upper reaches of Table Rock can be a challenge to negotiate. But come late July, when the lonesome peak finally dries out, a little leg muscle is all that stands between you and the summit’s spectacular views of Cascade volcanoes stretching from Washington’s Mount Rainier to California’s Mount Shasta.

POST-HIKE WATERING HOLE Farmstead Restaurant and Pub Do as the links-lovers do and drop by the Arrowhead Golf Course’s resident bar for a selection of nine microbrews, fresh steamer clams, and double-decker turkey clubhouse sandwiches piled with crispy fries.
28313 S Highway 213, Molalla; 503-829-7427

TRAILHEAD DIRECTIONS From Highway 211 in Molalla, turn right on S Mathias Road. After .3 miles turn left on S Feyrer Park Road; drive 1.6 miles and turn right onto S Dickey Prairie Road. After 5.3 miles turn right on S Molalla Forest Road, crossing the Molalla River. Continue 12.8 miles and turn left up Middle Fork Road, a gravel road. Drive 2.6 miles and turn right, following signs for the next 4.5 miles to the trailhead. No fees or permits required.

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