Ensenada

HOW TO GET THERE

The San Pedro Martir National Park is located approximately 240.9 kilometers toward southwest of Ensenada. Take the Transpeninsular Highway La Paz. At 140.9 kilometers is San Telmo, a small village on the left side of the highway. From there you take the junction to the dirt road that leads you 100 kilometers to the National Park.

ORIGIN

In 1947, this forest area was declared a National Park, and in 1951, the park was included in Mexico's System of Protected Natural Acres. Protected by this federal system, and because of the biological and ecological importance that it offers to the State of Baja California, several government agencies, universities and scientific investigation institutes and foreign groups of scientists are involved in studies and investigations to learn more about the communities and the surrounding flora and fauna, and the relation of human beings to them.

DESCRIPTION

Because of its the extraordinary beauty and uncommon natural attributes, the San Pedro Martir National Park is considered an ecological and harmonious community that it is preserved intact.Its beautiful pine forest is represented by the Jeffrey pine and the Parry pine (four-leaved pinyon pine). Oaks are found in scattered locations. In drier areas, shrubs like manzanita, red shanks, chamise and great-basin sagebrush carpet the lanscape. The park contains many species of mammals, various reptiles (including rattlesnakes), amphibians and fish. Also, several species of birds, including both residents and migrants, have been spotted in the park. Mammals include, the ram, the mule deer, the coyote, the bobcat, the gray fox, the rabbit, the squirrel, and occasionally the mountain lion. Common birds include the pynion jay, the acorn woodpecker, two species of quails, several species of Hawks and the Wild Pigeon. The weather in the summer time is nice, but in winter is cold with intense rains. The annual average temperature average is 50 Fahrenheit; the annual rainfall measure is 500 cubic milimeters, and the snow season is from November until April. Sometimes the park experiences snow storms that the access to the park is impossible. The National Park has some cabins with beds and outside showers (outside), and latrines. Because the area is considered a natural sanctuary for wild life, electricity, telephone service and other urban comforts and services are NOT available. A first-aid station is located at the first entrance to the park but physician service is not available in the area. Some rescue teams work in the mountains of Baja California. At the end of the dirt road, and in the highest part of the park at 2,800 meters over sea level, the National Astronomic Observatory is located, operated by U.N.A.M.(The National University of Mexico), to observe and study stars and planets.

ACTIVITIES

The activities of the local people are a limited to raising cattle and weeping the observatory clean from damaged and fallen pines. These inhabitants use a transistor radio to communicate, and in an emergency, a runway for small airplanes is located at Mellin's Ranch (San Jose), just 28 kilometers to the west of the National Park. San Pedro Martir has peaceful places to relax, admire the incomparable beauty and incredible sounds of nature. For explorers, the park is a special place to learn about nature. For climbers, the peaks of the mountains, allow them to share nature's artwork. The park is unique and essential for scientific and astronomic searchers because of its unlimited things to observe, study and learn. One of the best areas for camping is Vallecitos and very easy to find. Just follow the dirt road to the observatory and find it only 24.2 kilometers to the northwest of the first entrance to the park. Besides ecotourism, you can hike and mountain-bike ride there.

RECOMMENDATIONS

If camping, make sure to bring all You needs, equipment and supplies. If hiking a long distance, inform the park ranger of your plans. Regularly, the conditions of the dirt road from the Transpeninsular Highway to the National Park is passable for small cars. Nevertheless, in winter, when rain and snow are present a 4x4 vehicle in very good shape is recommended. If it is possible, bring snow chains for the tires. If you have heard about snow in San Pedro Martir, before making your trip, verify with the local office of the National Observatory by calling these telephone numbers: (617)408-88 and 445-80 to leason if the condition of the road is fine or if it is closed. The animals are unpredictable in their behavror. Therefore, is recommended to stay away from them. Hunting, fishing, off-road vehicles & motorcycles are Not allowed. Do Not cut boughs or branches for fire wood or bedding material; bring your own. Use EXTREME CAUTION when making campfires. Never leave a fire burning unattended. Do Not litter. Dispose of litter in the proper containers located around the park, or take it back home with you. Help us to preserve our natural resources. Promote among your family and friends a respect for nature.