The Copper Canyon Companion

Copper Canyon, located in Mexico’s Sierra Madre Mountains, is four times larger than Arizona’s Grand Canyon and almost 300 feet deeper. It is also the homeland of the cave-dwelling Tarahumara Indians. The Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, which traverses the area, is one of the most spectacular train rides in the Western Hemisphere.

The California Native International Adventures has been operating tours through Copper Canyon since 1983. California Native guides are known throughout the area for their work with the Tarahumara Indians, and the company is a major source of information on this remote area of Mexico.

"The Copper Canyon Companion" was written by the California Native staff as a reference for travelers to this unique destination. In its pages you will meet the Tarahumara Indians, who have lived in the remote mountain area for centuries. California Native’s guides share with you their personal memories and affection for these proud people who refused to be conquered by both the Spaniards and the modern world.

The book takes you back in time and introduces you to the 17th-century conquistadores and priests who conquered and colonized the area, and the 19th-century Americans who left their mark in these rugged canyons—-Alexander Shepherd, who developed the silver mines into some of the richest in the world, and Albert Kimsey Owen, who established a utopian colony and, along with Arthur Stilwell, conceived the fantastic rail line. You’ll also meet Father Miguel Hidalgo, the "Father of Mexico"; Emperor Maximilian, installed by France to rule the country; and Pancho Villa, hero or villain of the Revolution.

The book includes useful information for travelers: lists of birds and plants, tables of mileage and distances, a sightseer’s log of the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, and more.

Considering a trip to Copper Canyon? The Copper Canyon Companion will travel with you and give you an in-depth look into this unique region of Mexico’s Sierra Madres.