The Copper Canyon, or “Sierra Tarahumara,” is actually a series of six canyons that comprise a third of Chihuahua, Mexico’s largest state. The canyons encompass over 25,000 square miles of land, making it four times the size of the Grand Canyon.

Perhaps even more impressive than the sheer size of the Copper Canyon, and the awesome scenery the massive gorges create, is the area’s unparalleled bio diversity. The climatic differences from the snowcapped mountain tops to the subtropical forests in the canyons provide habitat for over 290 bird species and one third of all the mammals found in Mexico. Semi-arid coastal plains in the west support sugarcane and various vegetables, while the valleys in the east sustain peach and apple orchards.

Access to the spectacular sights of the Copper Canyon remains quite limited; with no roads in the canyons, the train route provides exclusive entry for visitors and backpackers. Far from a mere mode of transportation, the rail route is an engineering feat, and a sight worth visiting, in and of itself.

Work on the railway began in the late 19th century, but due to several factors, including the lack of sufficient funds and engineering difficulties created by the unique terrain, the railroad was not completed until 1961. The train route traverses coastal plains and up through the Sierra Madre mountain range, escalating over 8000 feet.

Trips to visit the stunning Copper Canyon can be easily tailored. The ChePe Train operates daily, running between Chihuahua and Los Mochis with several stops along the way. To find out about daily trips, one-way overnight tours, roundtrip overnight tours, air/rail express trips, and transfers between El Paso and Chihuahua, please click here.

Another option available for exploring this spectacular region is onboard the deluxe Sierra Madre Express. This eight day, seven night adventure departs from Tucson, Arizona, and includes two nights at the famous “Posada Mirador” lodge in Divisadero and one night at the Hotel Mission in Cerocahui. Passengers will ride in one of four deluxe sleeping cars and will have access to our domed dining car, observation car, and other public areas. For further information about the trip’s itinerary and for reservation information, click here.