Devil’s Backbone – Sierra de San Pedro Mártir

The Devil’s Backbone lives up to its name—a white-knuckle ridge route that cuts through the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir to within striking distance of Mexico’s highest peak, Picacho del Diablo. The trail follows an ancient mining road that clings to exposed granite ridgelines, with thousand-foot drop-offs on both sides and technical rock steps that’ll test your spotter’s nerves and your vehicle’s approach angles.

This is difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with skid plates and good tires—the granite can slice sidewalls without warning. Spring and fall offer the best conditions, though snow can close the high country well into May. No permits needed, but fuel up in Ensenada and carry extra water. The payoff is camping under some of the darkest skies in North America and bragging rights on one of Baja’s gnarliest technical challenges.