The Chihuahua al Pacífico Train

The Copper Canyon railroad, officially known as the Chihuahua al Pacifico, is one of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring rail journeys in the Western Hemisphere – maybe the world. Traveling through coastal shrub, fertile valleys, pine forests, high desert, and next to towering canyon walls, incredible vistas, sheer drop-offs, flowing waterfalls, and over bridges and through numerous tunnels, it's no wonder this train journey as been referred to as “the train ride in the sky.”

The rail trip from Los Mochis to Chihuahua has 36 major bridges and 87 tunnels. The train follows a tortuous route from sea level to a maximum elevation of more than 8,000 feet.

For visitors, the recommended route has travelers departing west to east, boarding in Los Mochis or El Fuerte (further up the line). El Fuerte is the recommended departure point, since it is a more attractive town, and the train departs 90 minutes later than the train leaving Los Mochis.

The main reason for suggesting this west-to-east route is better canyon viewing during daylight hours. The line's most spectacular scenery is between Temoris and Cerocahui, on the western flank of the Sierra Madre mountains. The eastbound train travels this section during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 12 noon), while the train from Chihuahua may enter this area after sundown (especially during the winter months). However, using Chihuahua as a departure point, due to its first class facilities, is recommended, if possible.

There are two trains daily in each direction: Primera Especial and Segunda Clase. Primera Clase is first class. Most first class trains will have a restaurant and bar car, comfortable seats and security. Segunda Clase is second class, and about half the price of first class. It is only recommended as a last resort, as the cars will be crowded and not well-tended. The train lacks a restaurant car, and is much slower, thus you may not see the sights of the Canyons. The train trip takes about 13 hours one way, 15-16 hours for second class.

In all cases, best views are generally from the windows on the south side (right side if you are traveling west to east) of the train.

There are a number of different ways to "ride the rails" of the Copper Canyon. Deluxe, all-inclusive rail tours are available through private companies that either own or lease special rail cars. Travelers on a budget or those who want to travel independently can purchase their ticket through specific travel agencies in Chihuahua or Sinaloa. You can also purchase a ticket at the station, but it is recommended to get there at least an hour before the train leaves in case of crowds. You can find the aforementioned in the Tourist Services section.