Western Wanderlust Chronicles

For Labor Day, Greg and I decided to hike North Table Mountain, located near Golden, Colorado. While I’ve rock climbed here before, this was my first time hiking the mesa. It was a perfect morning for a Front Range hike, with clear skies and cool air to start the day. The trail offers a scenic and moderate experience, showcasing stunning views of the surrounding foothills and the distant Denver skyline. The mesa itself rises sharply from the landscape, and the trails wind through rocky terrain and grassy plateaus before flattening at the top. Once we reached the mesa, we were rewarded with panoramic vistas and interesting geological formations, including basalt cliffs.

Once we completed the steep ascent, Greg and I headed toward Lichen Peak, a small, distinct summit on the northern end of North Table Mountain. The peak is named for the lichen-covered rocks that give it a unique appearance. As we hiked, we even spotted a couple of deer grazing, a quiet reminder of the beauty of Colorado’s wildlife.

The crisp morning air was refreshing as the sun warmed the trail. We paused for a moment, soaking in the peacefulness of the mesa and the vastness of the surrounding landscape. As we rounded a corner, we were greeted by an unexpected view—an endless stretch of the Rockies unfolding before us.

We continued our trek around the northern end of the North Table Loop, a well-maintained trail that spans about four miles round trip. Along the way, Greg and I discussed the fascinating geology of North Table Mountain. The mesa is a volcanic formation, dating back 64 to 62 million years ago, with a thick basalt cap formed by ancient lava flows. Its flat top and steep sides are shaped by layers of volcanic tuff, ash, and sedimentary rock beneath, with visible columnar jointing in the basalt. Erosion and tectonic uplift over time have carved its cliffs and boulder fields, making the landscape visually striking and full of history.

Following our hike, Greg and I ventured into Golden for brunch and a relaxing walk around the town and the Colorado School of Mines campus. We ended the day by strolling along the river walk, watching people float down Clear Creek in tubes—a perfect way to cap off a beautiful Colorado morning.

All in all, it was a fantastic Labor Day filled with adventure, nature, and well-earned relaxation. Have you ever hiked North Table Mountain or explored other trails in Golden? I’d love to hear about your favorite hikes in the comments!