Baja California Sur is Mexico's southernmost peninsula state, where the stark Sonoran Desert meets the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Home to world-class diving, dramatic desert landscapes, migrating gray whales, and the legendary resort city of Los Cabos, this remote yet accessible state offers extraordinary natural and cultural experiences. From the bohemian art town of Todos Santos to the colonial charm of Loreto and the vibrant capital La Paz, Baja California Sur captivates travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and authentic Mexican culture.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Picacho de la Laguna Summit Trail
The crown jewel of hiking in Baja California Sur, this 3-day round-trip trail climbs from the desert floor to the 2,163m summit of Picacho de la Laguna, the highest point in the state. The ascent passes through cactus desert, thorny scrub, cloud forest, and finally pine-oak meadows at the summit. The high-altitude meadows (La Laguna) are unlike anything else on the peninsula — a cool, green oasis in the sky. Campsites are located in the meadow at approximately 1,800m.
Trailhead: Santiago or Cañon San Dionisio (near Todos Santos side) or El Portrero (East Cape side)
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2
Cañón de la Zorra (Waterfall Canyon)
A fantastic half-day hike near the East Cape town of Los Barriles leading to a surprising 10-meter waterfall in the desert mountains. The canyon hike involves boulder scrambling, stream crossings (seasonal), and beautiful desert scenery. The reward is a freshwater pool fed by the waterfall — a magical desert oasis. This is one of the most accessible dramatic hikes in Baja California Sur.
Trailhead: Santiago village (local guide required)
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3
Cerro de la Calavera (Skull Hill Trail)
A popular and accessible half-day hike outside La Paz, Cerro de la Calavera rises 480m above the city offering panoramic views of La Paz Bay, the Sea of Cortez, and the surrounding desert landscape. The trail winds through typical Sonoran Desert vegetation — cardón cacti, elephant trees, and palo verde — with good birdwatching opportunities. Popular with La Paz residents for early morning fitness hikes.
Trailhead: End of Calle Héroes de la Independencia, La Paz
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4
Sierra de San Francisco Cave Painting Hike
More cultural than physical, the hike to the famous prehistoric cave paintings in the Sierra de San Francisco is a 1-2 day guided adventure by foot and horseback. The dramatic canyon descents reveal thousands-of-years-old paintings of humans, deer, fish, and abstract designs in red and black. The remote desert landscape is stunning, and the paintings are among the finest in the Americas. A UNESCO World Heritage experience.
Trailhead: San Ignacio (tours depart from town)
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5
Misión San Luis Gonzaga Circuit
A cultural hike connecting the remote Misión San Luis Gonzaga (1737) in the Sierra de la Giganta foothills with the stunning desert landscape of eastern Baja California Sur. The hike involves dirt road walking and off-trail desert exploration around the beautifully preserved adobe mission church. The isolation and historical context make this a memorable experience.
Trailhead: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 195 turnoff
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6
Punta Lobos Coastal Trail
A scenic and easy coastal walk from the south end of Todos Santos to Punta Lobos, a rocky headland with sea lion colony and dramatic Pacific views. The trail follows the beach and clifftops, passing through low desert scrub with occasional whale watching opportunities December-April. The sea lion colony at Punta Lobos is visible from the clifftop without disturbing the animals.
Trailhead: South end of Todos Santos (Playa Todos Santos)
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7
Cañón del Pilón (La Paz)
A relatively unknown canyon hike in the mountains behind La Paz offering a full day of desert canyon exploration with seasonal pools and dramatic cliffs. The canyon hike involves scrambling through boulders, following dry washes, and climbing rocky ridges. A wonderful escape from La Paz city for outdoor enthusiasts.
Trailhead: Highway 1 south of La Paz, turn-off toward Todos Santos
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.