Baja Explorer UTV Expedition

Sierra de Juárez Loops

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BAJA EXPLORER 2027

March 5th - 8th, 2027
4 Days • 3 Nights • Mountains • Desert • Sea of Cortez • Pacific Coast

Four-day north Baja expedition taking us to the mountain of Mike’s Sky Ranch, then to the beaches of the Cortez in San Felipe and back north to Ensenada. Experience diverse terrain styles and epic sights along the way.

Trip Overview

Trip Date - March 5th to 8th, 2027

Trip Price (per customer-owned UTV, 2 people) hotels, Breakfast & Dinner, trail guides, trail mechanics, and chase support trucks. 4 Days, 3 Nights.

Deposit (due at booking)

Balance (due 45 days before expedition)

Includes: hotels, Breakfast & Dinner, guides, mechanics, and support trucks.

Deposit - $1500.00

Buy Now

Detailed Itinerary

$ 3,200

$ 1,500

$ 1,700

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Pre-Trip Instructions

The Baja Explorer takes us from Tecate into the rugged mountains of Mike’s Sky Ranch, across the peninsula to the Sea of Cortez in San Felipe, then back through the desert and mountains to Horsepower Ranch in Ensenada before our final run to Tecate.

Expect fast mountain trails, rocky technical sections, wide-open desert, dry lakebeds, deep washes, pine forests, legendary Baja ranches, and hundreds of miles behind the wheel.

Mountains. Desert. Sea of Cortez. Legendary Baja.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1 Tecate To Mike’s Sky Ranch

March 5th, 2027

Into the Baja Backcountry

The Baja Explorer begins at the Tecate border, where we’ll cross into Mexico, get the UTVs lined up, and immediately start working our way into the rugged backcountry of Northern Baja.

We’ll head east into the Sierra Juárez Mountains, trading pavement for dirt as the route climbs through rocky mountain terrain, pine forests, sweeping corners, and fast sections that give everyone a chance to settle into their machines.

As the day progresses, we’ll travel deeper into Baja and make our way toward Valle de la Trinidad for fuel and a quick break.

From there, the terrain begins to change. The trails become narrower and more technical as we head toward one of Baja’s legendary off-road destinations.

By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at the famous Mike’s Sky Ranch, tucked away in the mountains and accessible by dirt trail.

We’ll park the UTVs, grab a cold drink, enjoy dinner at the ranch, and settle in for our first night in Baja.

Overnight: Mike’s Sky Ranch
Terrain: Mountains • Pine Forest • Fast Trails • Rocks • Baja Backcountry

2 Mike’s Sky Ranch To San Felipe

March 6th, 2027

Mountains to the Sea of Cortez

After breakfast at Mike’s, we’ll fire up the UTVs and head out for a completely different side of Baja.

Leaving the mountains behind, we’ll work our way through technical trails, rocky sections, washes, and open desert as we begin descending toward the Sea of Cortez.

Today brings a great mix of terrain. Some sections will require patience and careful lines, while others open up and give us the opportunity to get back on the throttle.

We’ll eventually make our way toward the massive El Diablo Dry Lake, where the mountains disappear and the landscape opens up in every direction.

From the lakebed, we’ll continue toward San Felipe, taking on classic Baja desert terrain and the famous San Felipe washes before hitting the rough, whooped-out stretches leading toward town.

After a full day in the dirt, the blue water of the Sea of Cortez comes into view.

We’ll finish the day in San Felipe, park the UTVs near the beach, and enjoy a well-earned evening on the Sea of Cortez.

Overnight: San Felipe
Terrain: Technical Mountains • Dry Lake • Desert • Washes • Whoops

3 San Felipe To Ensenada

March 7th, 2027

Sea of Cortez to Horsepower Ranch

We’ll wake up on the shores of the Sea of Cortez, grab breakfast, and then point the UTVs west for one of the most diverse days of the expedition.

Leaving San Felipe, we’ll cross the peninsula through remote desert and mountain terrain toward Valle de la Trinidad.

Expect a constantly changing trail - fast desert sections, rocky washes, tight mountain routes, ranch roads, and plenty of classic Baja terrain along the way.

As we work toward the Pacific side of the peninsula, the landscape begins to change again. The dry desert gives way to cooler mountain air and the rugged countryside surrounding Ensenada.

Our final miles will take us into the hills outside Ensenada, where we’ll arrive at the legendary Horsepower Ranch.

After three big days on the trail, we’ll park the UTVs and enjoy our final night together at one of Baja’s best-known off-road ranches.

Overnight: Horsepower Ranch - Ensenada
Terrain: Desert • Mountain Trails • Rocky Washes • Ranch Roads • Fast Dirt

4 Ensenada to Tecate

March 8th, 2027

One last morning in Baja.

After breakfast at Horsepower Ranch, we’ll load up and begin our final run north toward Tecate.

Instead of taking the easy way home, we’ll head back into the mountains and make our way toward Laguna Hanson, where the desert landscape transforms into pine forests and some of the best flowing dirt trails in Northern Baja.

This final day is all about enjoying the ride.

Wide-open forest roads, long sweeping corners, mountain scenery, and fast sections give everyone one last opportunity to enjoy their UTV before the expedition comes to an end.

We’ll connect with the Compadre Trail and continue north, eventually reaching the highway for our final run toward Tecate.

Four days. Two coasts. Mountains, deserts, dry lakes, ranches, washes, and hundreds of miles of Baja.

We’ll cross the border back into the USA at Tecate with dirty UTVs and another unforgettable Baja adventure behind us.

BAJA EXPLORER - MISSION ACCOMPLISHED.

OFF THE GRID EXPEDITIONS

It’s more than just a trip. It’s a life experience.

Dates: March 5th to March 8th 2027

Cost: $3200.00 per customer-owned UTV. This covers two people per UTV: hotels, food, guides, mechanics, and support trucks. (See Trip Included/ Excludes for details)

Deposit: $1500.00 Balance 45 days before the expedition.

Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights.

Terrain: 65% gravel roads, 10% hill climbs, 15% beach riding, 10% Hyw fast-paced driving style.

Our goal at Off the GRID Expeditions is to have a good time. With that said, being prepared and having the right tools/equipment can make everyone’s day much more enjoyable!

Stock UTV’s are very capable and impressive machines… they are also a lot of fun to customize! Although heavy modification isn’t necessary, there are basic items that you must have when going on a OFF the GRID run.

Here’s a list of required items for our Expeditions:
(Note: some expeditions might require more items, based on specific trail or location needs. See Run descriptions for more details.)

UTV prep is a must prior to any run. If one vehicle has a problem, we all have a problem.
All services done on vehicle. (oil change, air cleaner, brakes, nut and bolt )
All tires aired to proper pressure. ( 1 Spare in required on vehicle)
All equipment and parts securely tied down in UTV.
Full Fuel Tank. (Spare gas can be carried but must be safe and secure on UTV )
Tools, Jack and tow strap securely fastened in UTV.
Helmet with wired speakers for Intercom system. Yes helmets are 100% mandatory.
Radio - Mounted VHF radio, with weatherman programmed frequency 151.625 (see below)
Intercom - We highly recommend a wired intercom so you can clearly hear the radio and can easily transmit on the radio while driving. (see below)
GPS - Lowrance GPS Unit only- No exceptions (We provide the GPS file the morning of the expedition) (see below)
Drivers licence - Vehicle Registration - Insurance
Off Road lights - Some good light so you are comfortable driving at night. LED lights are recommended.
At least one full size spare. (Must be tied down and secure)
Jack (if it's a good one)
Tools / Tow strap (Bring only the basics we’ll have the rest)
Food / LOTS of Water - Dinner and breakfasts are included and we will be stopping for lunches however snacks for the trail are suggested. (beef jerky, candy, chips, etc)
Mexican Auto Insurance for you're UTV www.bajabound.com No you're USA insurance wont work in Baja
So why do we need a GPS?
The GPS is your life line when navigating these technical trails of Baja. Every turn has a surprise and without a well planned trail you would be lost in minutes. The GPS not only displays your exact route but it is also use for milage calculations for turns or and potential hazards as well as waypoints
Communication is key..
We use a VHF 55w radio with a preprogrammed channel to communicate from Utv to Utv. The operating channel is weather man (151.625) please make sure you have this preprogrammed into you're unit. All communication systems must wired into push to talk intercom system to your helmet. The VHF radios allow us to call out any potential hazards, milage, and just general communication amongst the group. Example ( Hazard mile 45.2 on right or "hey dude with the blue Can-Am you have a strap hanging under your Utv" )
Why because they save lives ......
Helmets are mandatory no questions asked. I know some ride with only head sets but with Off the GRID Expeditions you need to wear one. Goggles or full face shield as well !!!! You only have one head on your shoulders so use it wisely and protect it....

To prepare for your adventure, packing doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here's what you'll need:

Luggage: A carry-on size soft duffle bag is sufficient.

Check the weather in Baja California using your smartphone. Given the possibility of getting into the ocean, don't forget your bathing suits. Additionally, pack sandals or flip-flops, comfortable driving shoes, pants, shorts, and a few T-shirts. An all-conditions jacket is essential for chilly days. Your evening attire is your choice, but keep in mind that we'll be driving in the open air, so you may get a little dirty. If rain is in the forecast, a good rain suit will certainly be helpful. For hot days, Off the Grid Sun SPF 60 shirts work wonders to keep you cool. In the summer months, remember to pack sunblock and a hat.

Cooler and plenty of snacks for. the trail. We do stop for lunch, carry you through in case of any trail issues..

Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with more than 60 days notice before tour start date will receive their deposit as a credit to be used towards future tours with Off The Grid Expeditions. The credit expires 1 year after issued.
Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with 60 or less days notice before the tour start date will forfeit their deposit as a cancellation fee. Any balance payments can be held on file as a credit to be used towards future tours and services with Off The Grid Expeditions. The credit expires 1 year after issued.
Cancellations initiated by the participant received in writing to Off The Grid Expeditions with 30 or less days notice before the tour start date will forfeit their deposit and any balance payments as a cancellation fee.
Cancellations initiated by Off The Grid Expeditions due to conditions beyond their control including but not limited to fires, weather, terrorism, civil strife, floods, earthquakes, or natural catastrophes, etc. will be credited towards a future trip in full amount of balances paid.

$

Trip Cost

Trip Price (per customer-owned UTV, 2 people)

$ 3,200

Deposit (due at booking)

$ 1,500

Balance (due 45 days before expedition)

Includes: hotels, food, guides, mechanics, and support trucks.

$ 1,700

Trip Includes

Guided trails from the border every step of the way
Pre-run and mapped course for your Lowrance GPS unit
Hotel accommodations for all nights
Breakfast and dinners provided for all nights
Lead UTV guiding the group with hazard call-outs via radio
Sweep support UTV with parts and tools for trail breakdowns
On-the-trail mechanics ('Baja Ninjas') for any issues
Chase trucks with tools, welders, wheels, tires, emergency fuel & medical equipment