Mexico's Breathtaking Copper Canyon Train
You can find amazing train rides in places you may not have expected. And in northwest Mexico, the Copper Canyon Train provides some of the most breathtaking and nostalgic views that you can ever find on a train.
The train goes through the Copper Canyon - which is collection of canyons that really have to be seen to be believed. The train goes from Chihuahua to Los Mochis Sinalo - all in all traveling over 400 miles in a span of 16 hours. Chihuahua serves as the northern point most closest to the US while Los Mochis, Sinalo is the end of the trip on the southern end.
Several train lines have rode along these routes. One issue and cause of concern for some people have been safety issues. For example, American European Express and American Orient Express struggled to continue a train line on the Copper Canyon. A major reason for this came from an armed robbery on the way to Copper Canyon in the early 90's. This led to bad publicity and several trips were cancelled and ultimately, the business had problems sustaining itself. Today, with all of the crime that is being reported out of Mexico, there is increasingly less demand for train trips for US citizens which travel throughout Mexico.
However, even with the safety concerns, there does continue to be trips through the famous Copper Canyon. As you can see from the train schedule posted on Copper Canyon Insider
- it is very reasonable to take this train route. The express route costs about $145 USD and the Economic train costs half of that at about $72 USD. With this route - you of course have to first travel to Chihuahua or Los Mochis to hop on the train at the beginning of its route. Another option is to hop on the train once it is in route from one of the stops in places such as El Fuerte, San Rafeal, Pitorreal, or La Junta.
If you decide to book a room, you will find amazing views from hotels along the Copper Canyon including some off a cliff overlooking the Canyon. There are also many great activities, tours, and attractions in Copper Canyon as well.
All in all - it is an amazing place. And the train ride is an authentic and exciting experience for those who decide to take part in it. If safety is a concern, be sure to talk to many people about your travel plans in advance to understand more about any of your safety concerns. Also, you can research information at the US Department's tips for traveling online resource.