KEYWORDS: Beatson Gorge, Beatson Falls, Coal Canyon, Hollow Falls, Campbell Creek, Phantom Falls, Ravine Creek, Ravine Falls, Schirmer Ravine
ABOUT
Created by ancient lava (basalt) flows, the approximately 3,300 acre North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is an elevated basalt mesa with beautiful vistas of spring wildflowers, waterfalls, lava outcrops, and a rare type of vernal pool, called Northern Basalt Flow Vernal Pools. Typically fissures in the basalt soak up winter rains, forming seasonal streams and waterfalls. In a few places, however, the underlying basalt is impermeable to water forming a temporary pool. Soon to dry up after rains end, only specialized plants and animals adapted to this habitat can survive over time. Despite the impacts of non-native invasive plant species, range management practices, such as cattle grazing, have contributed to maintaining spectacular wildflower blooms that draw many visitors from near and far to the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve.
Chico Hiking Association has outstanding trail maps and Flower Guide for this location
Visit the website or cut and paste the link for a free comprehensive flower guide
http://www.chicohiking.org/ValleyFoothill/Phantom-Falls.htm
MORE INFORMATION AND CONTACTS
Chico Hiking Association:
http://www.chicohiking.org/index.htm We cover the 50 best hikes within 2:10 of Chico, California. Our trail information is the best available, but use it at your own risk. Enjoy.
