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Copper Canyon Expedition - Sierra Madre
Copper Canyon
Mexico
One of our more advanced and beautiful wilderness rides, this expedition follows sections of El Camino Real and parts of the Silver Trail built by Alexander Shepherd to transport huge quantities of silver by mule train from Batopilas to Creel. Share the trails with shy Tarahumara Indians as you descend the steep mountainside into the hidden wonders of Mexico’s famous Copper Canyon system. The ride takes you to a place where the old west lifestyle continues as it has for centuries. Here Indians still live in caves, ranchers struggle to survive, campgrounds are primitive, and supplies move by foot or animal.
On a true adventure, you join a historic pack trip that recreates travels of yesteryear. Surefooted mountain horses take you across wide mountain ranges and down into mile-deep canyons on the historic El Camino Real. Trails are steep, rugged and rocky as you follow paths taken by silver and gold conductas. While on the trail you camp with friendly families at isolated ranchitos where they scrape out a hard-scrabble living. Camping nights are broken up by hotel nights to refresh and shower in the historic mining towns of Urique and Batopilas. This truly world-class ride is for experienced trail riders only.
Special Week: Semana Santa - Easter with the Indians
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Meeting:
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Bahuichivo train station
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Airport:
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Chihuahua or Los Mochis
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Transfer:
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Bahuichivo train station on Day 1 - drop off in Creel on last day.
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2009 | 2010
Rates include:
Accommodations - 4 nights in small hotels and 4 nights camping, all meals, transfers from Bahuichivo train station, 6 riding days
| A | 2009 | 9 day trip, AP | 9d / 8n | $1695 |
Transfer Option:
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2009
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Transfer from Bahuichivo train station included on Day 1. Departure: off in Creel on last day.
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Take the train from Los Mochis or Chihuahua to Bahuichivo train station. We will pick you up from there. At the end of the trip we will drop you off at the Creel train station for your trip back.
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Other dates available for small groups.
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Rates do not include:
Sleeping bag.
Friday night: Overnight in Chihuahua or Cuauthemoc. Overnight is not included, but can be arranged - room rate ~ $120.
Day 1: Your adventure begins when you board the world-famous ChePe train in Chihuahua, Cuauhtemoc or Los Mochis on your way to the remote country inn (train ticket not included - see below). Our staff will meet you at the Bahuichivo train station for a short 8 mile transfer to the ranch. Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Tarahumara, the staff meets you with a hearty greeting, potent Margaritas, a traditional Chihuahua cookout and true Norteño hospitality. An evening fiesta brings riders together for tall tales and yarns around a roaring campfire, go easy on the drinks, you have a full day tomorrow.
Day 2: Ringing of the chow bell awakens everyone to a vibrant mountain morning. Your day at the beautiful Oso is spent picking your horse and saddle, learning or renewing mountain riding techniques, packing and resting in preparation for your challenging ride. An afternoon trip takes you to the jewel of the mountains, the centuries-old Mision de San Francisco in Cerocahui. We make a quick stop at the Trahumara Indian girls boarding school then back for final preparations.
Day 3: Your first day on the trail takes you through a dramatic box canyon into a mountain valley populated only by indigenous people. After reaching the top of this breathtaking canyon, you begin a steep descent down mountain trails to an oasis-like camp below fruit-laden citrus trees.
Day 4: Today’s ride takes you to the tropical paradise of Urique in time for lunch, exploration and swimming in the very bottom of the Urique Canyon, the deepest canyon in the region. Rest well in a fine hotel before beginning your next day’s ride along the Rio Urique and a climb to the ghost town of Los Alisos. Tonight’s steak cookout features fine beef from the local Chihuahua region. Help pick fresh grapefruit from our trees to prepare the finest Margaritas you have ever tasted.
Day 5: Leaving Alisos the next morning, you climb completly out of the Urique Canyon to a dramatic viewpoint at the very crest. A gentle ride covers the San Fernando Plateau then down steeply to Los Terros where we camp on the edge of the Munerachi Canyon overlooking the historic silver mining pueblo of Cerro Colorado.
Day 6 and 7: We decend 1,000 feet to Cerro Colorado the next day where Doña Jula welcomes us with snacks from her charming country store. The rough descent over, you ride along cobble-stone paved trails to the famous silver-mining town of Batopilas, a crown jewel in the bottom of the canyon.
Unsaddle your horses one last time then off for a quick shower, a stop in a local cantina, and a T-bone steak or rainbow trout to celebrate!
Day 8: Day free for optional activities such as a visit to the famed "Lost Cathedral" or to the Hacienda where the Shepherds directed mining activities and held gala social events during the late 1800s.
Day 9: Transfer to Creel train station. From here you can continue your journey to the coast or back to Chihuahua (train ticket not included).
Itinerary subject to change
Be prepared to cheerfully accept the unplanned and unexpected. Although the guides and Mexican staff are the best, remote travel in the Sierra Madre has risk. This is the real thing ... comparable to traveling through the Rocky Mountains in the 1880s. Only the adventurous should consider this trip.
PLEASE COME PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED AND CHANGES IN THE ITINERARY.
This ride begins with two nights at a small hotel followed by a night camping then another hotel night in Urique, two more nights camping than to Batopilas for two more hotel nights with free time for exploration or tours on your own.
Your ride covers approximately 75 miles with about 4 miles of elevation changes. At the end of the ride, everyone is transferred to the mountain-town of Creel where they may continue their vacation or travel to Los Mochis or Chihuahua.
Route of the Railway - from Chihuhua to Los Mochis
Route Height:
 
Meeting:
Bahuichivo train station
Airport:
Chihuahua or Los Mochis
Train station:
Bahuichivo train station
Transfer:
Bahuichivo train station on Day 1 - drop off in Creel on last day.
Take the train from Los Mochis or Chihuahua to Bahuichivo train station. We will pick you up from there. At the end of the trip we will drop you off at the Creel train station for your trip back.
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Tack:
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Western and Peruvian
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Horses:
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Quarter, Hispanic Berb
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Pace:
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Slow with some trots and occasional canter, steep, long hours
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
15
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Weight:
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Max
200
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
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Max
12 riders
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This is a rugged, physically demanding adventure. Although the horses are no nonsense and well trained, you must be an experienced, confident rider in good physical condition. Rider weight is restricted to 200 lbs. We spend long hours in the saddle and must hike some steep or dangerous sections. Be prepared to cheerfully accept the unplanned and unexpected. Although the guides and Mexican staff are the best, remote travel in the Sierra Madre has risk. This is the real thing....comparable to traveling through the Rocky Mountains in the 1880s. Only the adventurous should consider this trip.
PLEASE COME PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED AND CHANGES IN THE ITINERARY.
Western saddles are used for riders and both Decker and sawbuck packsaddles are used with hard-sided PVC and soft-sided nylon panniers for transporting gear.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least six months after date of entry required by all nationals referred to in the chart .Passport Note(a) Applicants for Blue Tourist Cards should have a valid passport, return/o. more
Indigenous PeopleAmong the notable features of the Uruachic region is the variety of native peoples, which include Tarahumara, Guarojios, Pimas, Mexican "mestizos" and mixtures of all. The great mining and timber eras also brought in large numbers of Anglo Saxons -- their contributions to the gene pool can be easily seen in the features of local Mexican hillbillies.
It is also interesting to note that this area was held under almost constant siege by the Apaches for well over a century. When the explorer Carl Lumholtz trekked through over a hundred years ago, he found that memories of the Apache terror were still quite fresh.
Here's a couple of important historical tidbits from Uruachic:
Carolina Rascon was born here in the early 1900's. She grew to be over seven and a half feet tall, and was said to be the world's tallest woman. Her strength was legendary: she once single-handedly loaded a large iron cook stove onto the back of a mule.
Among the more notable pistol duels was a face-off held in 1920 between Rafael Tejo and Federico Rascon at "El Meson". To this day, no one knows who won -- being good shots, both men were found with matching bullet holes in the center of their foreheads.
These trips are scheduled during the dry, cool winter season in the Sierra Madre. Our fall and spring dates will have the warmest temperatures when the canyon bottom can be in the 80's- 90'sF and the crest at night in the 50'sF. November through February dates are cooler with the canyon bottom in the 60's and 70's (nights 50's) and the rim 40's-70's (nights down to freezing). Winter storm systems periodically affect this area (particularly Dec-Jan) and can cause freezing temperatures and snow on the rim and rain in the canyon bottom.
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… this list is only a guideline for you
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X = Necessary
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Check List
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Travel documents and Voucher
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X
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Flight tickets
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X
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Passport
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X
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Visa (check with your consulate)
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CLOTHING
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2 pairs long and loose fitting pants
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X
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2 pairs shorts
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X
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Swimsuit
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X
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2 light weight long sleeve shirts
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X
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3-4 T-shirts, Bandana
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X
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Underwear and socks (some light, some heavy to fit comfortably double in your boots)
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X
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Leisure clothes to be worn to restaurants
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X
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Sweat pants
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X
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Light weight hiking boots, sneakers or tevas that can get wet for river crossings
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X
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Warm parka or jacket (pile with shell is fine for Oct, March & April). Winter months require a good warm coat. Wool hat and gloves for winter months
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X
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Poncho or rain suit, light weight but tough
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X
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Hat with brim – essential for sun protection
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X
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EQUIPMENT
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Mid-weight backpacking style sleeping bag in a stuff sack (for Oct, March & April light weight; in winter medium and good to freezing
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X
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Insulated foam or therm-a-rest pad
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X
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Suitcase or additional bag for other clothes not used on trek
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X
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PERSONAL ITEMS
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Personal Toiletries
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X
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Insect protection
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X
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Personal medications
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X
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Biodegradable shampoo
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X
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Towel
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X
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Mirror
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X
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Comb
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X
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Hand lotion
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X
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Camera and enough extra films and batteries
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X
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Sun glasses with strap
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X
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Sun tan lotion and lip balm
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X
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Pocket knife
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X
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Flashlight
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X
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One-liter plastic water bottle
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X
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Sleeping bags - Large bulky bags are not acceptable. We have rental bags available for about $25 US to be paid on arrival. However, we require advance notification for these rentals.
One-liter plastic water bottle: Buy a decent one, preferably at a backpacking store and check to make sure it doesn't leak when you squeeze it. Lately, we have had many clients bring the newer hydration bays and they seem most happy with them.
Suncreen: Altitudes range from 1900 to 7800 feet on this trip. There is not much atmosphere to protect you in the higher elevations so be prepared.
Flashlight: We suggest a lightweight LED light or a small 2-cell that uses AA batteries and a halogen bulb. Bring along an extra set of batteries and bulb.
Clothing: Rugged outer clothing suitable for layering. Weather varies up to 60 degrees F. in one day. Nightime winter temperatures can drop to 15 degrees at higher elevations during winter months. Lows during summer months, spring and fall are generally well above freezing. Blue jeans are suggested for pants, Wrangler makes a "Brush Popper" shirt that is difficult to find but resists tearing branches and spines commont at lower elevations. Some riders (even men) swear by pantihose or silk long johns to protect the legs from chaffing.
Boots: Smooth soled riding boots that give ankle support are best. Personally we prefer the packer style. Boots should be well broken in and suitable for long hikes as well as rides. You might bring along some moleskin if you have any doubts about getting blisters.
Hat: Forget style, we like wide brimmed cloth hats that snap up at the sides and have a chinstrap. These hats protect against sun, can be wet to cool off or bath, can be used for a pillow and even serve to get a reluctant horse moving. Stiff cowboy hats are constantly being blown off or knocked off by low limbs, etc.
Toothbrush, shaving gear, shampoo, etc. should be travel-size and in a light-weight nylon bag.
We provide saddle bags for day needs and compressible stuff sacks for clothing and other gear.
Extra clothes can be left at the rim in the hotel in a bag or garbage sack. Please remember that space is limited so cover all the eventualities, but do not bring many different pairs of items. The most important thing to bring is your cheerful acceptance of whatever surprises the wilderness may hold in store!
Optional Items
Riding Helmet: Could save your life; if you want to wear one, bring your own.
Trail Snacks: We provide trail food but suggest everyone bring some favorite snacks; if you do, be nice and bring enough to pass around, sharing makes rides more enjoyable.
Camera: Unless you are in to serious photography, the newer lightweight cameras are best, a zoom lens adds to flexibility. Be sure to bring enough film or storage for digital cameral and a spare battery or two.
Binoculars: These are generally not necessary but if you want to bring them, we suggest a small lightweight pair; if you are a birder you may want something a bit larger.
Things from Home: Bring a small tourist book with photos, photos of where you live, etc. so you can share with your hosts where we camp. It adds to the fun, if you want to bring along a few candies or other goodies from your area it can also add to your experience.
Small pebble on stone: Bring this from where you live and carry it in your daypack to deposit in a special place on your first day’s ride.
Medical Considerations
We suggest you consult with your doctor prior to the trip for a checkup and to obtain any needed vaccinations, etc. You should have a current tetanus booster; vaccinations against hepatitis may be suggested as well as a prophylaxis against malaria. Be advised that there is no trauma care in the region where you will be riding.
We Supply
Tents, food on the trail (advise us if you need a special diet), water purification, cooking and eating supplies.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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..view other reports for different trips
All meals are included. You will be treated to traditional Mexican fare and local family friendliness.
Lodging will be “luxuriously rustic.” Four nights in small hotels and private haciendas; four nights camping, horses and equipment. Bring your own sleeping bag; six riding days.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
This is a rugged, physically demanding adventure. Although the horses are no nonsense and well trained, you must be an experienced, confident rider in good physical condition. Rider weight is restricted to 200 lbs. We spend long hours in the saddle and must hike some steep or dangerous sections. Be prepared to cheerfully accept the unplanned and unexpected. Although the guides and Mexican staff are the best, remote travel in the Sierra Madre has risk. This is the real thing....comparable to traveling through the Rocky Mountains in the 1880s. Only the adventurous should consider this trip.
PLEASE COME PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED AND CHANGES IN THE ITINERARY.
Western saddles are used for riders and both Decker and sawbuck packsaddles are used with hard-sided PVC and soft-sided nylon panniers for transporting gear.
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Tack:
|
|
Western and Peruvian
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|
Horses:
|
|
Quarter, Hispanic Berb
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|
Pace:
|
|
Slow with some trots and occasional canter, steep, long hours
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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|
Level:
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(2.5
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
15
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Weight:
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Max
200
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
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Max
12 riders
|
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This is a rugged, physically demanding adventure. Although the horses are no nonsense and well trained, you must be an experienced, confident rider in good physical condition. Rider weight is restricted to 200 lbs. We spend long hours in the saddle and must hike some steep or dangerous sections. Be prepared to cheerfully accept the unplanned and unexpected. Although the guides and Mexican staff are the best, remote travel in the Sierra Madre has risk. This is the real thing....comparable to traveling through the Rocky Mountains in the 1880s. Only the adventurous should consider this trip.
PLEASE COME PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED AND CHANGES IN THE ITINERARY.
Western saddles are used for riders and both Decker and sawbuck packsaddles are used with hard-sided PVC and soft-sided nylon panniers for transporting gear.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months after date of entry required by all nationals referred to in the chart .
Passport Note
(a) Applicants for Blue Tourist Cards should have a valid passport, return/onward ticket and proof of financial means. (b) Tourist Cards must be kept by the visitor during the entire length of stay as they will have to be presented and stamped on leaving.
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above, who can obtain a Blue Tourist Card for touristic purposes from their airline on direct flights, at port of entry, or from the Mexican Consulate before travelling, for 180 days, except nationals of Australia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic and Slovenia who can stay for up to 90 days.
Visa Note
(a) Nationals seeking to visit Mexico on business are advised to check with the consulate regarding visa requirements as they may need to apply for a Non Immigrant Business Visitor carnet (FM3). (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
Indigenous People
Among the notable features of the Uruachic region is the variety of native peoples, which include Tarahumara, Guarojios, Pimas, Mexican "mestizos" and mixtures of all. The great mining and timber eras also brought in large numbers of Anglo Saxons -- their contributions to the gene pool can be easily seen in the features of local Mexican hillbillies.
It is also interesting to note that this area was held under almost constant siege by the Apaches for well over a century. When the explorer Carl Lumholtz trekked through over a hundred years ago, he found that memories of the Apache terror were still quite fresh.
Here's a couple of important historical tidbits from Uruachic:
Carolina Rascon was born here in the early 1900's. She grew to be over seven and a half feet tall, and was said to be the world's tallest woman. Her strength was legendary: she once single-handedly loaded a large iron cook stove onto the back of a mule.
Among the more notable pistol duels was a face-off held in 1920 between Rafael Tejo and Federico Rascon at "El Meson". To this day, no one knows who won -- being good shots, both men were found with matching bullet holes in the center of their foreheads. |
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Copper Canyon Expedition - Sierra Madre
Tour Code: IT-MXRT02
9 days /
8 nights
~$1,695.00
Difficulty :
Lodging: 
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates |
Dates
Accomodation
Semana Santa
Tack:
Western and Peruvian
Horses:
Quarter, Hispanic Berb
Pace:
Slow with some trots and occasional ca...
Walk, Trot, Canter,
Airport:
Chihuahua or Los Mochis
Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
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