Lava Flow Trail, Maricopa

In the Table Top Wilderness within the Sonoran Desert National Monument, the Lava Flow Trail offers a hiking opportunity of light to moderate difficulty in a varied and dramatic Sonoran Desert landscape. Three trailheads are linked by a relatively level 7.25-mile trail. From south to north, the trail meanders through dense forests of saguaro, paloverde, ironwood, and cholla; skirts the jumbled basaltic slopes of Black Mountain; traverses an extensive creosote-bush flat; and crosses several large washes. Lava Flow Trail provides sweeping views of Vekol Valley and the Sand Tank Mountains to the west, while flat-topped Table Top Mountain — highest point in the Table Top Wilderness — looms to the east. Only hiking and equestrian use is allowed on the trail in wilderness under the Wilderness Act of 1964. Motorized vehicles and mountain bikes are prohibited in wilderness. Motorized and mechanized vehicles, including bicycles, must remain on existing access routes. Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters. Contact the agency for more information about regulations. Road conditions to the wilderness vary with high-clearance and four-wheel-drive vehicle requirements. Roads are primitive and not maintained. Have a full tank of gas, full-size spare tires, a vehicle tool kit, and first aid kit. The main access routes and washes are prone to heavy seasonal rains and flash floods. Do not cross flooding streams or washes! Hours and Seasons Trail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used due to high temperatures.   Summer temperatures may often reach 115 degrees. Wear a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water! Features and Services Drinking Water : There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water. Toilets : Accessible vault toilet onsite. Cell Phone and Internet : Cell phone service may be unreliable across the Sonoran Desert National Monument. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi. Pets : Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Pack out all waste. Safety and Conditions You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. Keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site. Expect potential hazards such as venomous snakes, extreme heat, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water. You might encounter rattlesnakes and scorpions. Don't put your hands or feet in brush or under rocks and boulders. Many abandoned mine shafts dot the landscape in Arizona and are very dangerous. Many shafts are deep vertical holes with no way out. Do not get close to or enter any mine shaft. Drug and human smuggling activities have occurred within the monument south of Interstate 8. If you see any activity that looks illegal, suspicious, or out of place, please do not intervene. Contact BLM Federal Law Enforcement Communications Center, County Sheriff or Border Patrol. Call 911 to report emergencies. Respect and Protect The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice  outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit. Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona. Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.