One of Mexico’s great destinations, Copper Canyon is a collection of six major canyons that carve through the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in Chihuahua, Mexico’s largest state. Also known as Barrancas del Cobre, this vast canyon system spans 12 times the size of Arizona’s Grand Canyon and is home to the 7th deepest canyon in the world.
Whether zipping, trekking, or riding across the gorge, a trip to Chihuahua’s Copper Canyon is the perfect adventure for travelers looking to explore a deeply cultural geographic marvel.
Here are three unforgettable adventures to experience in Copper Canyon:
- 2nd Longest Zipline: Unveiled in 2014, the Copper Canyon ZipRider is a staggering 8,379 ft long, making it the second longest zipline in the world. Visitors can take in the incredible views from above as they descend into the steep gorge. With a maximum speed of 85 mph and a 1450 ft vertical descent, this experience is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to create memories that will last a lifetime.
- Rarámuri Hiking Tours: For hundreds of years, the Rarámuri people have inhabited the areas in and around Barrancas del Cobre, passing down knowledge of the region to each generation. This history, paired with a skill for long-distance running, makes the Rarámuri fantastic tour guides, offering their own cultural perspective and connection to the land. Visitors will find this experience as spiritual as it is adventurous, providing an authentic way to learn about the Rarámuri culture while standing on land their ancestors have walked for centuries.
- Horseback Riding: Another unforgettable way to explore the vast Copper Canyon is on horseback, which provides a faster pace than a hike and allows travelers to cover longer distances. This scenic tour can cover anywhere from a day to a week, with many of these excursions offering longer camping trips in the area. This option is perfect for travelers looking to dive deeper into Copper Canyon and its surrounding beauty, and offers adventurous travelers a rustic experience in the vast Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains.
Photos Courtesy of Copper Canyon