Sierra de la Laguna

The Basics

This Baja California mountain range offers a wealth of hiking, backpacking, canyoneering, climbing, and bouldering activities to satisfy even the most ardent outdoors enthusiast. Picacho de la Laguna is considered the range’s highest peak at 7,090 feet (2,161 meters), and many travelers come to hike its slopes. Guided hikes through the Sierra de La Laguna Biosphere Reserve are considered challenging by some; if you can swing it, you’ll enjoy an up-close look at the region’s flora and fauna.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The hike can be challenging without the help of an experienced guide.

• Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

• Overnight base camp trips are available for those who want to explore the range in depth.

How to Get There

Located just north of Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range is accessible by car; simply head north on Highway 1, which encircles the mountain range, to reach the trailheads. Picacho de la Laguna is where most day trips and multi-day treks take place. Tours typically offer round-trip transportation from Todos Santos and San Jose del Cabo.

When to Get There

The most popular months to hike the mountain range are between November and early spring. Hurricane season can hit in August and continue into November, which is when the mountains experience heavy rains, so plan accordingly. Also, temperatures can drop below freezing at night in winter. Overall, in order to beat the heat, arrive early in the morning for the most enjoyable hiking conditions.

Nearby Todos Santos

Located on the Pacific coast of the peninsula, about 45 miles (73 kilometers) north of Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos serves as a starting point for many tours of the Sierra de La Laguna mountain range. The beach village is known as a hotspot for artists, craftsmen, surfers, and travelers looking for a little magic, as it’s the only “Pueblo Magíco” in Baja.

Ways to explore

Located an hour away from Los Cabos, many travelers visit the mountains on day trips from towns in the region. Tours range from guided hikes, some of which include stops to swim in waterfalls, to hot springs experiences during which you’ll bathe in natural pools.

If you’d like to spend more time here, consider staying at one of the lodges located near the Biosphere Reserve or a campsite for something a little more rustic. Otherwise, you can rent a car and tailor your own trip, with plenty of popular hiking trails, swimming holes, and spots to explore.

Accessibility

While some trails are flatter than others, none are considered wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None, although hikes will be too challenging for young children, and some tours may have age restrictions.

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, first aid kit, map of the area

What to wear

Hiking boots, hat, sunglasses, activewear that protects you from the sun

Not allowed

Camping in non-designated areas, cutting firewood, taking plants

Amenities

There are spaces to park depending on where you begin your hike from, but you won’t find restrooms or water on the trails.

Address

Located just north of the Los Cabos region on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range is easily accessible by car. Rent your own or book a tour with transportation included. Tours typically offer round-trip transportation from Todos Santos or San Jose del Cabo.

Driving

It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the mountains from the Los Cabos region via the Mexico 1 highway. Most of the trails have parking available at the trailheads, where you pay a small fee for entrance and vehicle access.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation that will take you to the reserve. Instead, book a tour that includes all transport.

Best times to visit

To beat the heat, arrive early in the morning for the most enjoyable hiking conditions. If you’re on a multi-day hike, rest during the afternoon before continuing once the temperature drops.

Best days to visit

The mountains tend to be quiet, regardless of the day, so don’t worry about when you visit.

Best months to visit

The most popular months to hike the mountain range are between November and early spring. Hurricane season typically arrives in August and continues into November, when the mountains experience heavy rain and night temperatures drop.

Special events

Festivals taking place in the region include Sabor a Cabo—a popular culinary festival held at the end of February—and the boisterous Carnaval, held the week before Lent.