Copper Canyon Tours and Trips

The largest canyon in North America, Copper Canyon is nearly four times the volume of the Grand Canyon, covering a range of what some claim to be up to 10,000 square miles.  A great place to hike, at varying levels of difficulty, the Copper Canyon offers other activities that include mountain biking and relaxing 'float trips' down the Rio El Fuerte. The Copper Canyon also sets the scene for the legendary 'Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacifico', one of the world's most impressive railway journeys. The train crosses 36 bridges and passes 87 tunnels along its 655 km route from Mexico's interior, past numerous canyons, to the Pacific coast. The area is also celebrated for the Taramuhara Indians, the second largest North American Indian tribe whose world famous long-distance runners moved into the canyons over five hundred years ago to avoid conscription by Spaniards to work in the silver mines.  Still maintaining a vital presence in the area, the Taramuhara live throughout the canyon in log cabins and caves, maintaining close ties to the land. Don't be surprised to share trekking routes or learn to barter with a few locals!

Please note that as is common in the Copper Canyon region, service and accommodation levels can be more basic than other areas of Mexico. The area is also mountainous and can be cold at night.

El Fuerte
Known for its Spanish architecture and colonial atmosphere, the cobblestone streets reveal their close ties to their colonial roots.  Sometimes used as an alternative to Los Mochis as a starting or end point for the train trip, El Fuerte served for more than three centuries as a major farming and commercial center.

Los Mochis
Gateway city on the Pacific coast, it is the final western stop of the Chihuahua-Pacific Railroad.  It is also an arrival point for the ferry from La Paz.
Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacifico- Considered one of the world's most scenic rail journeys, the train crosses 36 bridges and passes 87 tunnels along its 655 km route from México's interior to the Pacific coast.

Divisadero
Providing stunning views of the Copper Canyon, the train stops here for photo opportunities and the chance to stretch your legs and peruse the many vendors' stalls.  A great chance to see the panoramic views of the canyon before heading toward the pine covered rim of the canyon.
 
Creel
Founded in 1907 as a railroad town and located on the rim of a main canyon, Creel offers a great place to spend a night or two, hike the canyons and partake in other activities.  Covered with pine forests, the cool air around the rim of the canyon blends with the crisp pine smell creating a unique aroma that remains with you long after your departure.

Batopilas
A small 19th century mining village found deep in the canyon about 140 miles south of Creel.  The 'tropical' climate allows you to be amongst the numerous fruit trees, rather than the cool pine forests of Creel.