Trip To Table Top Mountain

I must quickly add to my list of things that I want to do before I die (so that I might immediately cross it off), trekking across Table Top Mountain, above Oroville Dam, to get a view of Greatly Disappointing Falls. Officially known as Phantom Falls, it would have been more impressive if an American Bison had stood on its hind legs above the trickle and added to it from a full bladder.

The meadows along the arduous way were filled with wild flowers. Not the riot of color that one might imagine, but quite widely spread. The 6000 steps in and 6000 steps out were up and down on trails consisting largely of basalt rubble. When you do need to stop and rest, basalt intrusions are not particularly well padded. But, that was what made the Trek worthwhile.

When we did get to the place to view “Paltry Falls”, we had, also, a view of massive columnar basalt formations surrounding and over which the falls cascaded. For the geologists among you, it would be a treat.

I recommend it as a family outing. Bring binoculars. Along the way, we saw Meadowlarks, Turkey vultures, and an American Bald Eagle, soaring above. Also, bring some noms … tasty granola bars and Mandarin oranges are good. Do not neglect to bring water … a lot of water. This time of year the daytime temperatures are mild, but the ascents and descents keep coming.