Mexico
Copper Canyon
Welcome to Copper Canyon, Mexico! This is actually a group of six enormous canyons carved into the mountains of northern Mexico — together, they're bigger and deeper than the famous Grand Canyon.
Why is it famous?
Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre) isn't one canyon but a network of six huge canyons covering about 25,000 square miles — a bigger total area than the Grand Canyon.
Some sections plunge more than 4,600 feet (1,400 meters) deep, with sheer cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and wildflower-covered slopes.
How did it form?
Six rushing rivers slowly carved these canyons out of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains over millions of years.
The canyon gets its name from copper-colored rock and lichen that tint parts of the canyon walls a coppery green-brown.
Amazing facts
The Tarahumara (Rarámuri) people have lived in and around these canyons for centuries and are famous worldwide for their incredible long-distance running ability.
A dramatic train called El Chepe travels through the canyon on tracks that cross 37 bridges and pass through 86 tunnels.
Quick facts
- The Tarahumara (Rarámuri) people have lived in and around these canyons for centuries and are famous worldwide for their incredible long-distance running ability.
- A dramatic train called El Chepe travels through the canyon on tracks that cross 37 bridges and pass through 86 tunnels.
- The canyon is home to hot springs, pine and oak forests, and a huge variety of wildflowers that bloom after the summer rains.
- A popular lookout point called El Divisadero lets visitors gaze straight down into the canyon's dizzying depths.