Phantom Falls

Location: North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve; Oroville, CA

Distance: 4.2 miles

Type: Day-hike; Out-and-back

Rating: Easy

Dog Friendly? Yes! Dogs must be on a leash.

Driving Directions to Trailhead: Click HERE.

Permits & Fees: There is no parking fee, however, a California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Lands Pass is required to hike this trail.

Purchase a Lands Pass HERE (select “Guest”, then select “Lands Pass”. They are available for purchase at $4.89 each).

Preparation: Water, snacks and sunscreen (there is minimal shade). To beat the crowds and guarantee parking, it’s best to complete this hike as early as possible.

I recommend downloading a GPS map to help navigate the trail (Click HERE).

The Hike:

After parking in the small dirt lot, locate the entrance of the gate. This gate marks the start of the trail:

Although there is a dirt path and well-marked signage, it’s a good idea to use the GPS map. There are a few sections of the trail that can be a little tricky to navigate. After about 2.5 miles into the hike, the first sign is reached:

sign phantom falls

Continue towards Ravine Falls/Phantom Falls. Along the way, there are a couple more signs to help with navigating the trail:

  • phantom falls signs

After reaching the sign that reads “Ravine Falls 0.2”, the trail slopes down the shady side of a hill, which leads directly towards Ravine Falls:

Phantom Falls is only a short 0.6 miles after Ravine Falls. Continue on the trail, which gradually climbs up the side of another hill, until Phantom Falls is reached:

Take the same trail back towards the parking lot. Enjoy the views!