Copper Canyon Traverse

The Barrancas del Cobre — Copper Canyons — in Mexico's Sierra Madre Occidental are larger than the Grand Canyon by almost any measure. The system comprises six interconnected canyons reaching depths of 1,800m. Running through them, rather than just looking at them from the rim, is one of the more extreme things you can do on the North American continent.

The route follows a combination of Tarahumara footpaths (the indigenous people of the region are among the greatest endurance runners in history), canyon trails used by local communities, and sections of cross-country navigation where paths do not exist. The Tarahumara paths drop from the high sierra at 2,400m to the canyon floor at around 450m — descents that are steep, rocky, and hot at the bottom.

The heat at canyon floor is the primary physical challenge outside of winter months. In October through February, canyon temperatures are manageable — 25-30°C at the bottom. March through September, temperatures below 2,000m exceed 40°C and the trail becomes genuinely dangerous for anyone not acclimatized.

Water is the second challenge. Springs and streams exist but are not consistently marked or reliable. The Tarahumara communities along the route will often share water and sometimes food, and it is appropriate to reciprocate — carrying small gifts (not money) is part of the cultural interaction that makes this route what it is.

Safety: the Sierra Tarahumara has experienced significant cartel activity in parts of Chihuahua state. Research current conditions carefully before traveling. The canyon interior is generally considered safer than the highways, but this requires regular verification.