Home › California › Oroville › North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 755 Google reviews · Running trail in Oroville, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This scenic, expansive basalt mesa features opportunities for nature viewing, hunting & hiking.
What runners say about North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
“Overall, North Table Mountain is one of those places that reminds you how beautiful Northern California truly is.”
Visited North Table Mountain Ecological Preserve it was absolutely beautiful. We thought it would be a good time to catch waterfalls after all the rain storms that have recently passed through California. The views were incredible.
This place is beautiful when you come at the right time of year. I did a field study of California wildflowers here and was amazed at how many species exist here. Best to come as early as possible in the morning.
If you love wide open views, rolling green hills, and peaceful nature walks, this place is a must-see. The hike wasn’t overly difficult, but it does have some steady inclines that will definitely get your heart pumping — totally worth it once you reach the top.
Like other wildflower areas, it can be hit or miss depending on the season. Even without a "superbloom" (a word that gets tossed around way too much) it's a nice area to wander. Literally like a table top, it's mostly a flat hike, though there's a few places the trails dip down and back up.
Trail conditions & character
“You go into several different ecosystems like prairies, volcanic tables, canyons, waterfalls and streams and then rolling hills.”
“You go into several different ecosystems like prairies, volcanic tables, canyons, waterfalls and streams and then rolling hills.”
“This place is gaining popularity and people pack up the parking lots bringing a bunch of dogs and toddlers with strollers.”
“It's easy enough to get space however, though some of the popular areas and near the parking can be quite crowded, borderline zoo.”
“The trail itself is not difficult at all—though there are some rocky and uneven sections, it’s very manageable for most hikers.”
“I ended up doing the loop and it was about 8 1/2 miles.”
“I would rate the hike all the way down to Phantom Falls as moderate to somewhat difficult depending on your fitness level.”
“This place is gaining popularity and people pack up the parking lots bringing a bunch of dogs and toddlers with strollers.”
Plan your run at North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewildlife.ca.gov
- Phone+1 916-358-2869
Running trails near Oroville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Sycamore Hill
4.2 ★★★★☆ 5 reviews
Centennial Plaza
4.3 ★★★★☆ 105 reviews
Park featuring picnic areas and walking trails along the scenic Feather River.
Bedrock Park
3.6 ★★★★☆ 404 reviews
Public park offering tennis and pickleball courts, a pond for fishing, and picnic areas.
Bluff Hill Overlook
4.7 ★★★★★ 6 reviews