Copper Canyon & Northern Mexico

Northern Mexico unfolds across vast, sun-baked deserts. In the Sierra Madre Occidental, high desert gives way to Copper Canyon. Four times larger than the Grand Canyon, it plunges over 6,000 ft from pine-covered rims to warm subtropical valleys.

Summer rains bring greenery and spur waterfalls into action, while snow sometimes dusts the high country in winter. This is the homeland of the Indigenous Rarámuri, whose farming, textiles, ceremonies and running traditions shape life here.

The Chepe Express train provides the classic journey into the region, traveling from El Fuerte through dramatic mountain scenery to Divisadero and Creel. More remote landscapes can be reached by small aircraft or helicopter. With characterful but rustic lodging, the region appeals to culturally curious travelers, particularly hikers, nature lovers and photographers.