Fantastic Phantom!

Wildflowers at Phantom Falls

Blooming wildflowers and gushing waterfalls can only mean one thing: spring on North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve! The mountain—actually a basalt mesa—is worth a visit any time of year, but it comes alive in spring, when its hillsides explode in color and its seasonal waterfalls are in great form. The granddaddy of them all is 165-foot Phantom Falls, accessed by an easy 4.2-mile (round-trip) hike.

To reach the falls, follow the stream to the left of the parking lot. You’ll soon reach a shaded oak grove; take the fork in the trail to the right and head northeast. You’ll traverse vernal pools and lava outcroppings while surrounded by fields of lupine, buttercups, clover, and poppies.

First stop: Ravine Falls, a good spot for a picnic. A half-mile farther along is the star attraction, Phantom Falls. Watch the hawks soar overhead, gape at the vastness of the canyon below, and marvel as the water dissipates into a rainbow mist. Fantastic, indeed!

Beer Bonus: Before heading home, stop by Miner’s Alley Brewing Company (2053 Montgomery St., Oroville). At $9, the beer flight is a steal, and you can taste the peppercorn pale ale and chocolate porter without committing to either. Each pairs well with the buffalo chicken sandwich, pulled pork sliders, and house-made rosemary fries.

To reach North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve, from Hwy. 70 in Oroville, take Grand Ave. (Exit 48) and head east. After 1 mile, turn left on Table Mountain Blvd. then right on Cherokee Rd. Continue about 6 miles until you reach the parking lot on the left side of the road. Note: A California Department of Fish and Wildlife lands pass is required. Purchase in advance from CDFW for around $4. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

    View
  2. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  3. Man hiking up a trail at Montara Mountain, with a view of the Pacific and Grey Whale sand beach in the background

    From Beach to Summit

    No need to decide between a beach and a mountaintop—this hike includes both! Explore the stunning coastal scenery on this 6-mile out-and-back up Montara Mountain and into Rancho Corral de Tierra.

    View
  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Legendary Deals!

    There are outlet malls … and then there’s The Outlets at Legends! Located just east of Reno in the neighboring city of Sparks, this open-air entertainment, dining, and shopping destination isn’t just a visit, it’s an experience.

    View
  2. How Do You Après?

    Après all day? Hey, in Reno Tahoe, anything goes! But if you insist on skiing, skating, or snow tubing first—well, of course you do! Reno Tahoe is one of the best places on the planet for snow adventures of all kinds, followed by outdoor firepit gatherings and cozy indoor hideaway respites like these...

    View
  3. Woman walking in the Venice Canals of Los Angeles County

    Canal Contemplations

    With its incense-scented boardwalk, bohemian shops, skateparks, and abundance of body builders, Venice is happily eccentric, and artistic. Exhibit A: Its network of European-style canals with charming bridges, offering a tranquil tour of the town’s history.

    View
  4. Hike A Fall Classic

    Reno hit the jackpot with its well-planned urban trail system, including the Tom Cooke Trail adjacent to the Truckee River, and brilliant in fall.

    View