Copper Canyon Hiker

Hiking and Cultural Adventure in Mexico's Remote Sierra Madre

Imagine hiking in a canyon so magnificent that the Grand Canyon is but a little brother! Visit the homeland of the native Tarahumara Indians, reportedly the world's greatest long distance runners and keepers of ancient ways! Take the most spectacular train ride in the Western Hemisphere as it climbs almost 8000 rugged feet in the Sierra Madre Mountains!

Days 1-2 Los Mochis-El Fuerte-Cerocahui. Upon arrival at Los Mochis airport we transfer to the charming colonial town of El Fuerte, our departure point to the Copper Canyon region. Board the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad for the breathtaking trip through tunnels and bridges into Copper Canyon and the Sierra Tarahumara. We then explore an ancient Tarahumara ceremonial cave and the rugged canyon terrain near our lodge in charming Cerocahui.

Days 3-5 Urique Canyon-Los Alisos, La Estacion and Los Terreros Camps. For three days we hike to the top of Urique Canyon, the deepest canyon in the Sierra Tarahumara at 6,200 feet, across a remote divide and into Batopilas Canyon. Incredible 360-degree views unfold as we trek along these trails of the indigenous Taruhumara. While the "burro train" carries most of the gear, our guides lead the way and share their knowledge of the land. We camp at lovely sites amid lemon and grapefruit trees and along beautiful streams. We then descend into Batopilas Canyon, where the setting sun lights the orange and yellow cliffs of the canyon.

Days 6-7 Batopilas-Creel. We descend a series of switchbacks to the frontier town of Batopilas, a historic mining outpost deep in the canyon, encountering the Taruhumara people as we pass through the village of Cerro Colorado along the way. Then a morning hike to the ornate "lost cathedral" of Satevo is followed by an incredible journey by van out of Batopilas Canyon to the frontier logging town, now tourist center, of Creel.

Days 8-9. Chihuahua. We drive today to Chihuahua where we enjoy some last-minute shopping and a farewell dinner. Then it's off to the airport the following morning for flights home.