Epic Obsession: Guide: Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a steep but great hike on the west side of the Tetons. It is also outside of Grand Teton National Park so there are no fees or permits. The peak stares the Tetons right in the face and is well worth it.

Title: Table Mountain

State: Wyoming
Nearest City: Alta, WY
Type: Peak
Distance: 11 miles (total)
Peak Elevation: 11,300'
Elevation Gain: 4,000'
Recommended Duration: 6 - 11 hours
Getting there: From Driggs, ID head east towards Targhee Ski Resort and Teton Canyon Campground. Trailhead is located at the Teton Canyon Campground. You will take a right turn onto a gravel road that leads to the campground. The first trailhead that you see is for Table Mountain.
Trailhead info: There is usually plenty of parking right next to the trail head. Read the sign for trail and wilderness regulations.
Trail Map Link: http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/caribou-targhee/caribou-targhee/palisades/maps/05_09/Palisades_Teton%20Map%203%2011_09.pdf

Water: There is plenty of water along most of the trail. Make sure to bring a filter or some sort of means of purification. If you pack 2 to 3 liters than you should be fine.
Season: July through September (call ranger station to check conditions)
What to Bring: Make sure to bring some warm and waterproof clothing. Rain is usually brief but can be strong. The last section of this hike is very high and exposed (making it windy and colder)
Ranger Info: Teton Basin Ranger District - 208-354-2312
Description: The first section of the hike is fairly flat and easy. You follow a stream up a valley with tons of trees and other vegetation. At at least 1 point you will cross over the this stream by little log bridges. After about 4 miles the trail will slowly turn south and become very steep. There are several switch backs that bring you up and out of the valley. This is the most difficult part of the hike. Once you reach the top the trail will flatten out a bit heading east towards Table Mountain. You will pass a rock field as you near the top which can be difficult. Be careful not to twist your ankle at this point because it is a long, steep way down. The trail steepens right before Table Mountain but don't give up. The last push requires a little bit of scrambling in order to get on top of the rock. From the top you will have an amazing very (weather permitting) of the Tetons and valley thousands of feet below you.