Trail Overview
Parallel Road begins as a narrow, one-lane track running straight for the first three miles, with a smooth surface and about 3 to 4 inches of sand - far more comfortable than the parallel washboard route to San Ignacio. The trail then climbs steeply onto a plateau, where airing down or engaging 4WD may be necessary, depending on conditions. At the top, a sharp left turn reveals a vast, rocky plain with sweeping views of the valley and distant Laguna. The terrain here becomes chunkier, with baseball-sized and larger rocks scattered along the route, requiring careful tire placement to avoid damage. The trail then descends through a muddy arroyo, where standing water and salt deposits to the left hint at possible tidal flooding - extreme caution is advised in wet conditions. Beyond this point, the road winds gently through open desert, remaining mostly flat as it reconnects with the main road to San Ignacio.
Difficulty
There are two sections along this route that require attention. The first is a moderate climb where you'll most likely need to engage 4WD, especially if the surface is loose or sandy. The second is a crossing through a dark, damp arroyo, where standing water is often present nearby. Be sure to assess the conditions carefully before proceeding, as this area can become hazardous during or after high tides or recent rain.
