Copper Canyon- So Totally Gorge!

We spent the last week riding the iron rails though the Copper Canyon, or Barranca del Cobre, in the southwestern part of the state of Chihuahua. The Chihuahua Pacific, as the railroad is called, chugs through this breathtaking region of Northern Mexico crossing 37 bridges and 87 tunnels. With gorges spanning nearly a mile deep and wide in places, the Copper Canyon has the distinct honor of being the deepest canyon in North America- take that Grand Canyon!

We spent a week getting on and off the train, staying in different outposts along the way. It is, by far, the most remote and striking part of Mexico that we have explored. The Tarahumara Indians have inhabited this region for over 1,000 years. You may know them from their sandal-clad, long-distance running fame. They are shy and live in caves and log houses. The vibrant frilly-flouncy clothes of the women are a stark contrast to the dusty landscape.

But, I am going to stop here and leave you with some pictures from our journey.... more on the canyon to come.

View of Urique: the deepest part of the canyon and conveniently, the county seat. Driver's license renewal anyone?

View from a hike, outside of Divisadero.

Valle de los Monjes (Valley of the Monks). Outside of Creel.

Tarahumara women and the beautiful baskets they make. Apparently, this is yet another culture where the women work their asses off and the men just laze-about drinking.