BCEP 2025 Team 13: Table Mountain

Activity Notes

Table Mountain is one of the tallest and most distinct landmarks in the Columbia River Gorge, and perhaps one of the most difficult to climb on the Washington side. This has long been a popular climb, due to the inviting nature of it's distinct, triangular rocky face, it's proximity to the PCT for through-hikers, and the magnificent 360 view from the summit. It is situated on the Washington side of the gorge near Cascade Locks acting as a centerpiece, dividing the 'East' side and the 'West' side of the Gorge. 

When you reach the summit of Table Mountain, be sure to see the southern-most and northern-most ends of the ridgeline - connected by a ribbon of well-traveled footpath. This waypoint is at the southern end of the summit plateau, at the top of 1500 foot sheer cliff straight down. Real estate in this area is at a premium, so be aware of your footing and be conscientious of other hikers. This vantage affords you great views of the Columbia River from east to west. Look for a fantastic perspective of the v-shaped Eagle Creek Gorge extending from the Bonneville Dam way below you way out towards Mount Hood, which will be peaking over the southern horizon on a clear day. 

This viewpoint also gives you the best view of the original Bridge of the Gods, the ancient land-bridge reported by Native Americans. The man-made current-day Bridge of the Gods seems minuscule relative to its natural counterpart. What is also quite evident from this spot is the number of small pot-hole like lakes that dot the flat lands along this partial land-bridge. 

Following the left-hand side of the aforementioned "V" of Eagle Creek is Ruckel Ridge extending up to the top of the Benson Plateau and Chinidere Mountain off in the distance. The somewhat triangular front of the forward face of the plateau somewhat resembles the face of Table Mountain, that you're standing at the apex of! 

The northern end or "back end" of Table Mountain is where the true summit lies at 3417 feet. It offers better views of points east and north. On a clear day you will see Mount Rainier and Mount Saint Helens to the north and Mount Adams to your east. Just to your east is your neighbor Greenleaf Peak. Beyond it upriver, Wind Mountain and Dog Mountain are visible. To your southwest is your neighbor on the other side, Hamilton Mountain, although your perspective of it is dominated more by Hardy Ridge to its south. 

In the springtime, this is a great place for wildflower lovers.