Table Rock Dam with all 10 gates open. Gates are open as needed to release flood waters downstream. Otherwise, most of the water flows through the turbines in the powerhouse to make electricity.
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Table Rock Napa

4.8
·5 reviews·, United States

Hike to a rocky summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Napa Valley and rugged Northern California.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Table Rock Dam with all 10 gates open. Gates are open as needed to release flood waters downstream. Otherwise, most of the water flows through the turbines in the powerhouse to make electricity.

Table Rock Napa

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike to a rocky summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Napa Valley and rugged Northern California.

4.8
(5 reviews)

"Beautiful but challenging hike with stunning views of Napa Valley."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Bring Extra Water!

Hikers stress bringing double the water you think you need. It's a tough hike!

🚫 Tick & Wildlife Alert

Be aware of ticks and potential rattlesnakes. Bug spray is recommended.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Napa Valley Views

Panoramic Napa Valley Views

Summit of Table Rock

Sweeping vistas of Napa Valley's vineyards and rolling hills. A true reward for the challenging climb.

Rugged Northern California Landscape

Rugged Northern California Landscape

Table Rock Trail

Experience the raw beauty of rocky overlooks and diverse flora. A photographer's dream.

Challenging but Rewarding Hike

Challenging but Rewarding Hike

Table Rock Trail

A strenuous trek that tests your endurance but offers unparalleled scenic payoffs.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Challenging Hike

Table Rock in Napa offers stunning views but be ready for a strenuous trek. Bring ample water, as even on cooler days, the trail demands hydration. Watch out for ticks and wildlife like rattlesnakes; bug spray and caution are advised.

Best Time for Views & Safety

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during cooler months for a more comfortable hike. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photos and potentially fewer crowds. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Heard this beach is haunted 👀Table Rock Beach in Laguna Beach Orange County CA #tablerockbeach #tablerock #lagunabeach #laguna #oc #ocbeaches #californiabeaches #thingstodoincalifornia
@alosadventures
181.2K likes • 1.3M views

💧 Bring Extra Water!

Hikers stress bringing double the water you think you need. It's a tough hike! Reddit

🚫 Tick & Wildlife Alert

Be aware of ticks and potential rattlesnakes. Bug spray is recommended. Reddit

Table rock beach in Laguna 🫶 #lagunabeach #tablerock #socal #sunmer #beach #fyp
@justspam31230
91.1K likes • 755.8K views
America is Beautiful: (21) Table Rock - California Perched within Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, Table Rock offers sweeping views of Napa Valley and the rugged hills of Northern California. This rocky overlook, a favorite for hikers, captures the raw beauty of California’s wine country and beyond.
venturebrojoe
7 likes • 387 views

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots

The trail can be challenging; good footwear is essential for grip and comfort. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection

Hats and sunscreen are a must, especially on sunny days with limited shade. Reddit

Utilizando un helicóptero y gafas nocturnas fue como el departamento del Sheriff del condado de Napa, rescató a un senderista perdido en Table Rock, Laguna Beach. Sin lesiones, lograron encontrarlo y traerlo a salvo, el 29 de julio de 2024. #rescate #senderista #lagunabeach
univision34
127 likes • 13.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Bring Extra Water!

Hikers stress bringing double the water you think you need. It's a tough hike! Reddit

🚫 Tick & Wildlife Alert

Be aware of ticks and potential rattlesnakes. Bug spray is recommended. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots

The trail can be challenging; good footwear is essential for grip and comfort. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection

Hats and sunscreen are a must, especially on sunny days with limited shade. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers incredible photo opportunities of Napa Valley. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Table Rock is praised for its stunning, panoramic views of Napa Valley, making the challenging hike worthwhile for many. However, visitors consistently warn about the strenuous nature of the trail, the need for ample water, and the presence of ticks and potential wildlife.

"Beautiful but challenging hike. Lots of ticks in the brush along the trail, and it’s impossible to avoid touching the brush in some parts, so bug spray may be helpful. We encountered a rattlesnake as well. Bring more water than you expect you’ll need. We brought about 24 ounces per person, and we wished we had brought at least double that. This was on a sunny 78 degree day."

KL Wilga

"Great view, the hike was a little difficult at times though."

Brendan Kiely

"Nice place to go hiking there.."

blong her

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Challenging and rewarding hike
Beautiful natural landscape

What People Dislike

Strenuous and difficult trail
Need for lots of water
Ticks and wildlife concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Table Rock is located within Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, near Calistoga. Access is typically via car, with parking available at the trailhead. The hike itself is the primary way to reach the summit. Instagram

Yes, the hike to Table Rock is considered challenging. It involves significant elevation gain and can be strenuous, requiring good physical condition. Reddit

The main access point is through Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Be prepared for a steep and rocky ascent. Reddit

Currently, there are no widely advertised shuttle services directly to the Table Rock trailhead. It's best to plan for private transportation. Instagram

Yes, Table Rock offers stunning views of Napa Valley, making it a popular hiking destination for those seeking panoramic vistas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, which includes access to the Table Rock trail, typically requires a day-use fee. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current pricing and payment methods. Instagram

Park hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Robert Louis Stevenson State Park website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit. Instagram

Yes, there is usually a day-use fee for Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. This fee covers access to the park and its trails, including Table Rock. Instagram

Advance booking for day-use park entry is not always required, but it's a good idea to check the park's website, especially during peak seasons, to confirm. Instagram

Standard park rules apply, including leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires. Always check for any temporary closures or advisories before your visit. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Early mornings or late afternoons are often recommended for cooler temperatures and softer lighting for photos. Avoid midday sun during warmer months. Reddit

Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable athletic clothing, and layers. Sun protection like a hat and sunglasses is essential. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at the park's main entrance or trailhead areas. It's wise to use them before starting your hike. Instagram

Due to its challenging nature, Table Rock hike may be difficult for very young children or those with limited mobility. Older children who are accustomed to hiking might enjoy it. Reddit

Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Napa Valley, surrounding mountains, and the rugged Northern California landscape. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots. Look for interesting rock formations and unique perspectives along the trail. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks. Always check the park's regulations regarding drone operation before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions. Instagram

The dramatic rock formations and the contrast between the rugged terrain and the distant vineyards offer unique photographic subjects. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Older Children

Table Rock offers a rewarding experience for families with older children who are accustomed to hiking. The challenging nature of the trail means it's best suited for kids who have some hiking experience and good stamina. The incredible panoramic views from the summit are a fantastic motivator and a great reward for their efforts. Reddit

Key recommendations for families: Pack plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is strenuous. Ensure everyone wears sturdy hiking boots and sun protection. Keep an eye out for wildlife and stay on the marked paths. The sense of accomplishment after completing the hike can be a memorable experience for the whole family. Reddit

⛰️ Avid Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For seasoned hikers, Table Rock presents a satisfying challenge with a significant elevation gain and rugged terrain. The opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and reach a summit with expansive views of Napa Valley is a major draw. Instagram

Tips for avid hikers: Consider an early morning start to beat the heat and crowds. Bring more water than you think you'll need, and be prepared for potential wildlife encounters. The diverse flora and dramatic rock formations offer excellent opportunities for nature photography and a deep appreciation of the California landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Table Rock Hike: A Traveler's Guide

The hike to Table Rock in Napa is renowned for its challenging ascent and spectacular rewards. Hikers often describe it as a strenuous trek, with significant elevation gain that tests endurance. The trail itself winds through varied terrain, offering glimpses of the rugged Northern California landscape. It's crucial to be well-prepared, as many visitors emphasize the need for ample water, even on cooler days, due to the demanding nature of the climb. Reddit

Beyond the physical exertion, the payoff is immense. The summit of Table Rock provides breathtaking, panoramic views that stretch across the iconic Napa Valley, its rolling vineyards, and the surrounding mountains. This scenic overlook is a photographer's delight, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. However, hikers should also be mindful of potential hazards such as ticks and wildlife, including rattlesnakes, making insect repellent and cautious footing advisable. Reddit

For those planning their visit, early mornings or late afternoons are often suggested to avoid the harshest sun and enjoy more comfortable hiking temperatures. Sturdy hiking boots are a must for navigating the rocky and sometimes uneven paths. While the hike is challenging, the unparalleled views and the sense of accomplishment make Table Rock a memorable destination for adventurous travelers seeking the natural beauty of the Napa region. Instagram

Navigating Wildlife and Trail Conditions

When venturing onto the Table Rock trail, being aware of the local wildlife is paramount. Visitors have reported encounters with ticks, making insect repellent a highly recommended item to pack. Additionally, rattlesnakes have been spotted in the area, so it's essential to stay on marked trails and be vigilant about where you step. Reddit

The trail conditions themselves can be demanding. The path is often described as rocky and steep, requiring good footwear for stability and comfort. Touching the brush along the trail is sometimes unavoidable, increasing the risk of tick exposure. Therefore, wearing long pants and tucking them into socks can offer an extra layer of protection. Reddit

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, always carry a well-stocked first-aid kit, know how to identify potential hazards, and inform someone of your hiking plans. Heeding these precautions will allow you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery without unnecessary worry.

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