I ride around the area outside of La Paz on my motorcycle frequently in rather remote areas. I come across a lot of roads on the map that are signed
as private property or have a gate across them, some locked others not.
I’ve read on the forum about going through gates as long as you close them behind you but I’ve only done that once when I came to a gate and
fencing 50 meters from the highway where I was headed. Otherwise, I’ve felt like I should respect people’s property and turn back or try to find
another route.
So, I was wondering about the etiquette concerning crossing private property. I don’t want to invade people’s privacy or pee someone off at some
remote Rancho.bajatrailrider - 2-21-2026 at 01:49 PM
I have been riding Baja since the 80s if no lock on gate and no sign. I pass gate if up close it same. Once passing by If I see rancho house I stop.
Asl if Ok tell them Im local in my case. Baja on east side Highway 1 . Most gates are locked but I have the keys and Ok geoffff - 2-21-2026 at 01:50 PM
I go through gates (leaving them as I found them) that don't say keep out or private property. There are lots of gates that are just there to keep the
cows in/out.
I do this in rural USA as well if I know I am on public land.David K - 2-21-2026 at 02:33 PM
I go through gates (leaving them as I found them) that don't say keep out or private property. There are lots of gates that are just there to keep the
cows in/out.
I do this in rural USA as well if I know I am on public land.
Yes!
Unsigned and unlocked gates are for animal control.
Sometimes gates get locked, but don't remain that way... like this locked gate going to Mission San Fernando (in 2019) which was open in 2025... the
whole area was abandoned last trip.
[We had permission and a key, for filming America Unearthed 'Vikings in the Desert' https://vivabaja.com/p219/ ]
bajatrailrider - 2-21-2026 at 03:58 PM
Same here David some gates only locked when cows there.
