Make no mistake: tackling Mexico’s Baja Divide trail isn’t for everyone. It’s a strenuous, lengthy journey along graded dirt backroads and rough, sandy tracks. Covering more than 1,700 miles, the route starts in San Diego, California, and ends in La Paz, Mexico, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Sea of Cortez.
If you’re familiar with the Baja California peninsula, though, you’re well aware that this part of the country is rich in natural beauty. The amalgamation of mountains, deserts, rugged coastlines, and ocean views—not to mention some of the most awe-inspiring sunsets you’ve ever seen—is a sight to behold. That said, it should come as no surprise that it’s a popular choice for athletes with an affinity for adventure and the great outdoors. It just requires solid research and logistical planning.
The Baja Divide is typically traversed via two wheels, and it’s a true test of mental and physical strength. According to the bicycle adventure website bikepacking.com, it takes around 42 days to complete the trek on a bike, and travelers are encouraged to carry 10 to 12 liters of water and two to three days of food at a time. Water is limited along most portions of the trail, and resupply points are relatively spread out.
Food, however, tends to be a bit easier to find, and it’s one of the trail’s highlights. Along the way, you’ll come across stores to buy transportable foods like hard cheeses, beans, nuts, and fresh tortillas. The Baja Divide also takes you through towns such as Ciudad Constitución, Todos Santos, and Vicente Guerrero, where you can fill up on tacos, ceviche, pastries, and other local fare.
Clam ceviche served on the shell at Playa El Tecolote in La Paz, Mexico.
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Although limited in some areas, wild camping is part of the experience. Again, it’s important to bike well-prepared. Temperatures in the desert tend to drop at night, and roads can quickly become impassable if a storm comes through. On clear nights, camping along the more remote parts of the Baja Divide may result in some pretty incredible stargazing.
If you don’t have several weeks in your schedule to dedicate to completing the Baja Divide, there’s also the option to focus on specific segments. The total route can be divided into four large routes—the Northern Sierra, Valle de los Cirios, Missions, and Cape Loop—or 20 smaller sections (outlined by bikepacking.com). No matter which way you choose to experience the famous trail, winter is typically the recommended time to bike; the heat of the summer and hurricane season should be avoided.
