By Dave Kelly, author of Hiking Loreto
On August 16th 2023, Nopoló Park and Loreto II Park were set aside for conservation via two Presidential decrees to support sustainable development, ecotourism, and permanent habitat protection. These two new parks will support activities that are economically beneficial to local communities without sacrificing the natural resources that are essential to the well being of current and future generations.
Nopolo Park, located just outside of Loreto, across from Loreto Bay, includes the arroyos and hills around Loreto. The Loreto II Park starts at Juncalito beach, includes the trails of Tripui, Tabor Canyon, and the other majestic canyons south of Juncalito, down to Ligui. These parks hope to preserve an enclave of biodiversity in the Baja California Peninsula. With a vast extension of 6,217.52 hectares, these parks encompass a variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including coastal lagoons, estuaries, freshwater pools and rivers.
The new parks are home to an exceptional wealth of vegetation, highlighting species such as black mangrove, red mangrove, white mangrove, sweet pitaya and ironwood, among others. In terms of fauna, the park is home to a diversity of representative species, including from the endangered peninsular speckled rattlesnake to the majestic Aura Eagle (Turkey Vulture) and the charming Gray Fox, not to mention ring-tailed cats, deer, coyotes, raccoons and more. In addition, the park is home to a number of locally endemic species, such as the Carter’s lavender, the Mexican desert spiny lizard, and the Baja California night snake, underscoring its importance as a refuge for the region’s unique biodiversity.
We are incredibly fortunate to now have three National Parks in the Loreto area. Along with the two newest parks, The Bahía de Loreto National Marine Park protects the rich biodiversity of the ocean in this part of the Sea of Cortez. It is recognized as one of Mexico’s greatest treasures. Officially established on July 19, 1996, this park covers about 26,580 hectares. In addition, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and as a Ramsar Site. Within its boundaries are five major islands: Danzante, Carmen, Coronado, Montserrat, and Santa Catalina. Activities in the park include guided tours to explore nature and activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, sport fishing and hiking on the islands. In addition, marine biologists have observed natural phenomena such as fish and whale migration, making Loreto a must-see destination for marine life lovers.
There are multiple hikes and canyon treks listed in the Hiking Loreto Guidebook. Hopefully, as the management plan develops, the new inland parks will have new hiking and biking trails with trail signs, camping, and parking areas.
Hikers should now be aware that National Park bracelets are required for all three parks. You can purchase your bracelet on line or in person at the CONANP offices located at the Marina Pier in Loreto.
For more information visit the Conserva Loreto website. ConservaLoreto.org.mx
The Hiking Loreto Guidebook is available for purchase online at HikingLoreto.com and in Loreto at The Caballo Blanco bookstore.