Trail Map (pdf)

GENERAL INFORMATION:  Table Top Trail, in the 34,400-acre Table Top Wilderness, takes visitors from the floor of Vekol Valley (elevation 2,299 feet) to the summit of Table Top Mountain (elevation 4,356 feet) in just 3.5 miles. Along the way, visitors are treated to a variety of Sonoran Desert plants and wildlife, scenic vistas, and evidence of the area's volcanic history. The view from atop the summit is a dramatic panorama of rugged mountain ranges and desert plains.

The tail begins by crossing several small washes and bajadas (desert outwash plains), and winds northeasterly toward Table Top Mountain through forests of saguaro, cholla, prickly pear, paloverde, and ironwood. At the base of the mountain, the trail begins a series of switchbacks on its steep ascent to the summit. Near the summit the trail is bordered by four-foot-tall walls of loosely piled stones, the origin and purpose form which are unknown. Vegetation on the summit includes an unusual 40-acre island of desert grassland.

ACCESS:  Exit Interstate 8 at the Vekol Valley Interchange (Exit 144) approximately 26 miles east of Gila Bend and 34 miles west of Casa Grande. Travel south on Vekol Valley Road 2.1 miles to the Vekol Ranch turnoff and continue south on the dirt- surfaced road to the right, using the schematic map below. It is 15.3 miles from I-8 to Table Top Trailhead.

FACILITIES:  Table Top Trailhead includes a small, three-site campground with picnic tables, fire-rings, a vault toilet, and day-use parking for approximately 10 vehicles. No water or trash collection is provided.

MAPS:  Table Top Trail is depicted on the USGS 7.5-minute topographic map entitled "Little Table Top, Ariz." The remainder of the Table Top Wilderness is depicted on USGS 7.5-minute topographic maps "Antelope Peak, Ariz.," "Indian Butte, Ariz.," and "Vekol Mts., NE, Ariz."

NOTES:

• Table Top Trail receives the greatest use October through April. At other times, the trail receives little use. Always tell a friend or relative where you are going and when you plan to return.
• Drinking water is not provided at Table Top Trail, so bring plenty.
• Vekol Valley is prone to heavy rains and flash floods. Do not attempt to cross flooded washes.
• You may encounter rattlesnakes or other poisonous creatures; watch for them and be careful where you put your hands and feet. Do not harass reptiles - most bites result from people playing with, collecting or attempting to kill them.
• Fires are not allowed in the Table Top Wilderness.
• Pets are not allowed on Table Top Trail.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Bureau of Land Management
Phoenix District Office
21605 N. 7th Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85027
(623) 580-5500