Copper Canyon Travel Guide Tourist Attractions in Mexico

Named after the copper-green color of the canyon walls, the Copper Canyon is a network of six canyons that combined measures larger than the Grand Canyon in the United States. Located in the Sierra Madre of the state of Chihuahua, this canyon system offers some of Mexico’s most extraordinary scenery.

Copper Canyon is rich in biodiversity with many different species of trees, flowers and wildlife as well as rivers, natural hot springs, waterfalls and intriguing rock shapes such as the San Ignacio formations that resemble the likes of humans, animals and plants. A number of traditional Mexican towns are found throughout the area including Creel, Hidalgo de Parall, Batopilas and Urique.

Copper Canyon has historically been home to the native Indian tribe known as Tarahumara, or Rar·muri. These quiet people often dwell in adobes and caves, earning income by selling various handicrafts such as hand-carved violins and woven pine needle baskets to travelers.

There are many ways to explore Copper Canyon such as bus, driving, hiking, horse riding and mountain biking, but the most outstanding way is by the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway, commonly called “El Chepe.” Covering more than 400 mile of rails, 86 tunnels and 39 bridges, this train journey offers some of the Copper Canyon’s most spectacular scenery. The train makes several vista stops such as the popular one at Divisadero where travelers can enjoy breathtaking views and purchase foods and handicrafts from the Tarahumaran people.