Table Rock Trail Linville Gorge is a premier hiking destination in Burke County, North Carolina, covering 4.0 miles with 2100ft of elevation gain. Stats: 4.0 miles, 2100ft gain, Hard. Type: Out-and-Back. Surface: Rock/Dirt. Time: 4-5 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: peregrine falcons, black bears, white-tailed deer, timber rattlesnakes, ravens. Best seasons: Spring and fall for clear air and cool temps; avoid summer afternoon lightning on exposed summit. Table Rock rises as a dramatic fin above Linville Gorge — the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi. The scramble to the summit rewards with vertiginous views 2,000ft straight down to the Linville River. Pack plenty of water and layers. Mountain weather in the southern Appalachians can change rapidly — always check the forecast. Leave No Trace: stay on trail, pack out all waste, respect wildlife.