Today we hiked Table Mountain, another 52 with a view. A short-ish hike (4 miles) with not too much elevation gain (1,350 feet of elevation gain), with some lovely views. It was just the ticket. It was also a welcome change from the rocky hikes earlier in the week. Much of the trail was pine needles and forest floor. There were ledges, but not too scary.

The highlight of the hike was that I was able to bestow a trail name upon my hiking companion. He arrived at the trailhead with his hot cup of Starbucks coffee, and proceeded to carry it up the mountain. Sipping coffee all the way to the summit. Hence, I dubbed him “Starbucks”.

The summit itself is VERY anti-climactic. There is a “herd path” up to the actual summit. It’s narrow, not well-travelled. And since it’s a herd path, it isn’t maintained. Many a branch to the eye if you’re not careful. And there are no views at the summit. Well unless you consider a tin can a view.

We saw these lovely mushrooms on our way down.

The brook crossings were very easy this time of year. I’m guessing this “cascade” is often a bit more impressive, but it was still lovely.

Hike stats:

• Distance: 4 miles
• Elevation gain: 1,350 feet
• Total time: 3 hours, 23 minutes
• Moving time: 2 hours, 51 minutes