William O. Douglas Wilderness
The Meeks Table Research Natural Area is in the William O. Douglas Wilderness.
I’ve visited the Meeks Table area in the Rattlesnake Creek drainage for many a year. It’s situated in the eastern most portion of the Wilderness with a dry, Ponderosa Pine-dominated environment. It is a basalt mountain, though the 4,400-foot summit plateau is flat and broad.
Be warned that the approach to the trailhead has suffered much wildfire damage and is no longer marked. The last time I visited, more than a few years ago, it was difficult to find.
Monument Plant, they live for decades but only flower once
Mule Deer
It’s a relatively short, but steep and rugged hike to the top of the mesa. It is worth it. Wildlife, birds, lizards and snakes often can be seen. And, the wildflowers are amazing. It’s like stepping back several centuries in time.
The views are spectacular too, extending to the Rattlesnake Mountains and McDaniel Lake. Mt. Aix, the highest of the Mountains, has been a climbing destination for me many times in the past. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination.
The larger Rattlesnake area encompasses some very good deer and elk habitat, and mountain goats are common too. I typically see the animals in the early morning hours.
All in all, a fun place to visit.
Meeks Table on the right on a stormy day
Dead Elk and a Vulture doing what vultures do
Bitterroot
Master at camouflage
Prairie Smoke
Cow Elk
Trail to top of Meeks Table
Meeks Table
Chipmunk
Rattlesnake Mountains
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