Kid Time in Baja

We reluctantly chose to leave our happy place in Baja, and head north back to the USA. Our happy place wasn't delivering (waves, that is) so we decided to head north, do some chores, and start the snowboarding season.

On our way north, we stopped in the Cataviña desert. We've passed this unique area many times, oohing and ahhing at the boulder fields and cacti, but never stopped long enough to really experience it. This time, we spent the night among the cacti and boulders, and in the morning got right to business exploring the area.

Camping in the Cataviña desert, Baja

Within a 0.5 mile area, we explored for more than an hour without retracing our steps. It was very easy to get disoriented. The rock formations, with caves and crevices, kept us climbing and descending the entire time. Our only mistake was not wearing gloves to deal with the abrasive rock.

The elusive Scott-bird, hatching out of his rock egg

Our favorite cactus of Baja, especially prevalent in the Cataviña desert, is the Boojum tree (or Cirio). It's like an upside-down carrot that can grow (slowly) up to 70 feet tall.

A blooming Boojum Tree (straight out of a Dr. Seuss book)

We decided to devote an entire blog post to this place, because we've passed by it so many times without taking the time to explore. If you happen to pass through the area during the winter (when it isn't so hot), take an hour or two to explore. You'll feel like a kid again.