Trail Overview
This short loop begins at the CONAZA building on the corner of the main road in El Caporal and offers a scenic, non-technical route through the heart of Baja's ranch country. The journey starts on a moderately traveled, relatively well-maintained road that winds past six or seven ranches, offering a front-row seat to some of the region's most striking desert flora, including towering El Cordon cacti and a massive single-trunk specimen with up to 35 sprawling arms just off the roadside. As the route narrows, it branches off onto a lesser-traveled path, weaving past a few more ranches, passing directly between two small ranch homes--before continuing into more remote terrain. Soon after, the trail threads a narrow corridor between two fenced properties and drops dramatically into a stone-carved arroyo. Despite the dry season, this section can hold surprisingly deep pools of crystal-clear water--deep enough that local horses have been seen standing belly-high in them. Locals say this arroyo swells into a mighty river during the rainy season between July and September. Take caution while descending into the riverbed, as water levels and rock conditions can significantly impact vehicle passage. After the crossing, the route merges with another trail. Turning right will take you south toward the main road to La Fortuna, while a left turn leads north toward San Evaristo.
Difficulty
While this trail is generally non-technical, the river crossing elevates its difficulty to a level three. Even in dry conditions, careful wheel placement is essential, and during wet seasons, the crossing can become a serious challenge.
