Hiking Steinbeck Canyon
A fascinating day hike to Steinbeck Canyon, also known as Tabor Canyon. Best for physically fit people able to scramble over loose rock and use hands and feet to climb through boulders.
We depart Loreto at 9:00 AM to drive south about 30 minutes to a canyon mouth. Tabor Canyon opens up to a flat desert wash that extends from the mouth of the canyon to the sea about 2 miles (3 km) to the east. We climb through the boulder-filled canyon where a seasonal creek runs cool in the giant crevice. Your naturalist guide shares their knowledge of plants and ecosystem.
Part of the story here begins in 1940, when the legendary author John Steinbeck came to this canyon while traveling along the coast of Baja with his friend, biologist Edward F. Ricketts. Ricketts appeared in several of Steinbeck’s books, and was known as “Doc” in Cannery Row. Some locals took them to Tabor Canyon and Steinbeck wrote: “After a short climb we emerged on a level place in a deep cleft in the granite mountains. In this cleft a tiny stream of water fell hundreds of feet from pool to pool. There were palm trees and wild grapevines and large ferns, and the water was cool and sweet. This little stream, coming from so high up in the mountains and falling so far, never had the final dignity of reaching the ocean.”
After climbing through the boulders on rough paths, we pause for a picnic lunch next to the small creek that flows intermittently and rest beneath the looming canyon walls. Later in the day we make our way back down the canyon, arriving where we started and then, return to Loreto.
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Itinerary
Day 1
*Below is a general outline of our Steinbeck Canyon hiking day tour. Please note that this is our ideal schedule; however it may be adjusted due to weather or other items outside our control. Your adventure consultants and guides will brief you with any updates prior to your departure.
8:45 am - Meet in the Hotel Lobby
Meet your local Sea Kayak Adventures guide in the designated hotel lobby. *Please have breakfast on your own before meeting the group as it is not included in your itinerary.
9:00 am - Depart from Loreto
We leave Loreto by 9:000 am. Sit back, relax and take in the stunning views during the 30 minute drive south.
9:30 - 10:00 am - Arrive at Steinbeck Canyon
Once we arrive at our destination you'll get a brief introduction and safety overview from your guide. Enjoy the rest of the morning exploring the boulder-filled canyon, taking in the scenery and wildlife. You bilingual, naturalist guide shares their knowledge of the history, plants and ecosystem of the canyon.
12:00 pm - Lunch in the Canyon
When the sun is high overhead we stop for a picnic lunch along a quiet stream.
12:30 - 2:30 pm - Hiking and Return to Loreto
Following lunch we have more time to explore the canyon, watch birds and other wildlife and learn about the fascinating ecosystems in Baja California Sur.
What to Bring:
Note: Please dress appropriately for the days weather and for being outside in the elements during your tour. Weather on the Gulf of Mexico can vary and change quickly, so dressing in layers is always a good practice.
- Hiking clothing appropriate for the days forecast
- Hiking or trail shoes
- Socks (we recommend packing an extra pair of socks in your day bag)
- Hat
- Waterbottle (guides will refil as needed)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Chapstick with SPF
- Small day pack or hip pack with any personal items
- Light jacket or sweater
- Camera
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
Daily departures available for private groups November through April
2 People - $170 per person
3-4 People - $120 per person
5-8 People - $100 per person
Included:
- Full service of our Adventure Consultants
- Professional, bilingual Sea Kayak Adventures guides
- Transporation
- Lunch
- Taxes
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FAQ & More
How do I get to Loreto?
Please see our Baja Travel Guide for tips on getting to and from Loreto.
Are your tour prices in USD?
Yes, all of our tour pricing is in US Dollars.
What’s the weather like in Baja?
Please check out this great website Weather Underground for temperature averages in Baja.
What are your Terms and Conditions?
Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.
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