By Ashlee Simmons
In order to understand the sheer size of
Mexico's Copper Canyon, consider the Grand Canyon and multiply it by four. Located in the state of Chihuahua, the Sierra Madre mountains nestle and secure an area that's been inhabited by the Tarahumara for thousands of years. Tourists enjoy rugged beauty while learning about traditional customs of indigenous people.
History
The Spanish discovered the Tarahumara during 16th century explorations. Following their ancestry, the Tarahumara still inhabit cliff dwellings.
Size
The total size of Copper Canyon is 25,000 square miles, consisting of six canyons ranging in depth from 3,225 to 6,136 feet.
Misconceptions
Copper Canyon got its name from copper-green lichen covering the canyon walls. Many think the name is due to copper mining.
Features
Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad snakes through Copper Canyon. The ride covers 393 miles, travels from sea level to 8,000 feet and includes a 360-degree loop. Several rivers formed the canyon, and all merge into the Rio Fuerte.
Geography
Copper Canyon's geography is diverse with mountains, lakes, forests, plains, rivers and subtropics.
Fun Fact
Highly popular with senior citizens, Copper Canyon is one of Mexico's prime destinations for the elderly.
Resources
About the Author:
Ashlee Simmons has written professionally for more than 10 years. Her writing focus is travel, equestrian and health and medical articles, but she enjoys writing human interest stories as well. Simmons graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a liberal arts degree.
