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San José de la Zorra trail and the Kumeyaay
A hiking trail led by members of the Kumeyaay community is now open to the public. The hike is located in San José de la Zorra and is the perfect adventure to learn more about Kumeyaay traditions and customs.
This town is about 25 miles north of Ensenada. You may only access the trail via a dirt road, but do not worry as any vehicle can travel through without difficulty.
The Kumeyaay community, one of the oldest in Baja California, dates back to pre-Hispanic times when this territory was dominated by the Pericú, Guaycura, Cochimí, and Yumano groups--the Kumiai belonged to the latter group.
At this time, these indigenous groups were semi-nomadic and the Kumeyaay people settled in the small valley of San José de la Zorra because it was rich in natural resources. The land offered the community water and oak acorns, which became a big part of their cuisine. During Spring and Summer, they stayed near San Jose de la Zorra and moved closer to the coast during the colder weather seasons.
Unfortunately, like other indigenous peoples, the Kumeyaay were being torn from their land towards the end of the 18th century, including their sacred sites. Today, the Kumeyaay people preserve their culture through their language, although fewer and fewer natives speak it.
As a result, the hiking tour intends to preserve Kumeyaay's legacy and culture by teaching visitors about the history of this region.
The hiking tour includes several stops:
- Nest area, to learn about native birds of the region.
- A stream, where you will sit and enjoy a brief discussion about the vegetation in the area.
- Mortar culture site, in which one of the oldest community leaders tells you about the history --in their native language-- and blesses the hikers with some local sage.
- And last, a stop at the San Jose Catholic Church.
