Where in the World?

Barrancas de Urique

After a slightly un-restful sleep, Erica and I headed to breakfast. I love the Mexican style breakfasts; huevos (eggs), bacon, biscuits, refried beans and coffee. Very satisfying!

Our destination today was the beautifully rugged and dramatic Barranca de Urique. The trip was about 18 miles (30 km) and took approximately 1 ½ hours. We were in a small bus for the bouncy ride over dirt roads with an elevation climb of over 3000 feet (900 m). Cerocahui is in a little valley north of our destination.

The ride south immediately started with a steep ascent along the southern face of the canyon encircling the valley where Cerocahui is nestled. We ultimately ascended to around 7500 ft. elevation (2300 m) and then down again for the views of Barranca de Urique.

Basket Weaver

The geology of the region is fascinating and has been crafted over millions of years from volcanic/tectonic activity coupled with water erosion from the many rivers that crisscross the area. Most of our trip was through vast expanses of pine forest with some mixed deciduous trees and shrubs. Many wildflowers were blooming above 6000 ft. (1800 m). What was amazing is that when we looked down upon the town of Urique, we were told that it was a sub-tropical climate which was a dramatic difference to the cool dry air of the pine forests. Barranca de Urique and The Copper Canyon is as dramatic as the Grand Canyon. The scenic vistas seemed to go on forever!

Many indigenous people still live their simple lives here without electricity or many of the modern conveniences that were are used to. We found some wonderful hand woven baskets from two ladies. (See the photo link below for an example)

The bus ride back to Cerocahui seemed to go faster than the trip out. Maybe the anticipation of what we were going to see affected our perception of time.

After a quick lunch and a short afternoon rest, several of us hauled ourselves up on some horses and with a guide walked a bit around the Cerocahui valley towards the Cascadas de Cerocahui or small waterfalls of Cerocahui. The falls were not that big today but the area was rich in color (reds, sandstone, yellow, white, brown, gray and black). The peaceful ride was just what my soul was craving; a no rush meandering along the backcountry.

Our day ended eating another fantastic meal with new friends sharing the adventures of the day. Tomorrow we head northeast on the Chihuahua Pacific Railway. Our destination is Creel which seems to be the northern gateway to the vast Copper Canyon area. The train ride is supposed to be the most spectacular in all of North America.

Enjoy viewing my photos from the day (21 photos).

Have a great day!

Michael