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Ascending Hikes – North Table Mountain

Trip

Ascending Hikes – North Table Mountain

Ascending Hikes Section (AHS): This loop on North Table Mountain from the west trailhead combines two sustained ascents with extended mesa-top travel, creating a moderately strenuous outing with repeated elevation gain. The route climbs via the North Table Loop Trail, traverses Tilting Mesa to the Mesa Top Trail, and drops through Cottonwood Canyon before rejoining the loop for a second climb, offering alternating exposure between open rim views and more enclosed canyon terrain. A short detour to Lichen Peak marks the high point before a steady descent completes a circuit defined by its rolling profile, broad vistas, and efficient use of connecting trails. This is the second in a summer series of AHS hikes.

Contacts

Wayne Howell
Wayne Howell
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,120 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 6,565 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

A loop on North Table Mountain from the west trailhead delivers a varied and moderately strenuous tour of this iconic basalt mesa, combining steady climbs with wide-open summit travel. The route follows the North Table Loop Trail upward to gain the mesa top, then trends across rolling terrain on the Tilting Mesa Trail to meet the Mesa Top Trail, where expansive views of Golden and the Front Range unfold. Dropping into Cottonwood Canyon introduces a brief change of scenery with a more enclosed feel before rejoining the loop for a second ascent to the rim, rewarding persistence with a visit to Lichen Peak, the high point of the mesa. The final descent retraces the North Table Loop Trail back to the trailhead, completing a scenic circuit with a mix of sustained elevation gain, panoramic vistas, and classic foothills terrain. We’ll find a comfortable spot for lunch/snack. Our pace will be comfortable for all group members. Overall, this hike is ~6.5 miles and ~1100 ft elevation gain. (North Table Mtn - Loop 3 - CalTopo)

Meet at the North Table Mountain Park West Trailhead at 7:30am (North Table Mountain Park West Trailhead - Google Maps)

Route/Place

North Table Mountain

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

10 essentials are required. Trekking poles are recommended.

Trip Reports