Hop Creek Trail starts off at Vega Creek Trail and follows an old road trace, crossing over two creeks. Along the way, you can spot a striped mesa. The trail then continues to climb up towards Shay Mesa, going through scrubby juniper.
The terrain is mostly sandy and there is not much shade. After a few more drainages, the trail goes straight up with no switchbacks to make it easier.
At the peak of the mesa, there are nice views and a rest stop before the trail ends at the Forest Service Road.