Family Adventure in Copper Canyon

A Canyon of Dreams

Today was an adventure that truly showcased the raw beauty and cultural richness of Copper Canyon. Leaving the cozy confines of our lodging, we set out to explore the Parque Nacional Cañon de Santa Elena. The anticipation was palpable, especially for Elena, who was eager to see the towering canyon walls she had only heard stories about. Little did we know, the day would be filled with not just natural wonders, but also delightful culinary experiences and a touch of local artistry.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Cañon de Santa Elena, a natural wonder in Chihuahua, Mexico, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The morning started with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante El Barranco. Maximilian and I enjoyed some huevos rancheros, a classic Mexican dish that always reminds me of home. Elena opted for a simpler plate of scrambled eggs and fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to embrace the day's adventures. The crisp December air was refreshing, a stark contrast to the often-milder weather back in Bielefeld, and I made a mental note to buy Elena a warmer jacket at the Tienda Comunitaria ONORUAME later.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Restaurante El Barranco in Parque Barrancas del Cobre.

The drive to Parque Nacional Cañon de Santa Elena was scenic, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define Copper Canyon. As we approached the canyon, the sheer scale of it was breathtaking. The towering walls seemed to rise endlessly, dwarfing everything around them. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such natural grandeur. It was a moment I wanted to capture perfectly with my camera, hoping to share this feeling with my readers and inspire them to witness it firsthand.

We decided to hike the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, a popular route that promised stunning views and a chance to get up close to the canyon's majesty. The trail began with a boardwalk that led us to the banks of the Rio Grande. Here, the canyon walls loomed even larger, creating a sense of being enveloped by nature's embrace. Elena was particularly fascinated by the river, pointing out the various birds and plants along the way. Maximilian, ever the supportive husband, kept a watchful eye on her as she explored the rocky terrain.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

As we ascended the trail, the views became even more spectacular. The panoramic vistas of the canyon were simply mesmerizing. I made sure to take plenty of photos, trying to capture the essence of the landscape. It was a challenge, of course, as no photograph could truly do justice to the real thing. But I hoped that my images would at least give my readers a glimpse of the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounded us.

The trail itself was relatively easy, making it perfect for a family hike. Elena, despite her initial reservations, managed to keep up with surprising ease. We took our time, stopping frequently to admire the scenery and catch our breath. Along the way, we encountered other hikers, all of whom seemed to be equally captivated by the canyon's charm. There were even canoe tours launching for excursions. The shared sense of wonder created a sense of camaraderie, a reminder of the unifying power of travel.

One of the most poignant aspects of the Santa Elena Canyon is the fact that one side of the canyon is the US, and the other is Mexico. As a Mexican who now lives in Germany, this resonated with me deeply. It's a stark reminder of how arbitrary borders can be and how much our lives are shaped by the circumstances of our birth. I shared this sentiment with Maximilian, who listened with his usual thoughtful attentiveness. Elena, of course, was too young to fully grasp the concept, but I hope that one day she will understand the significance of this place.

After completing the hike, we were all feeling quite hungry. So, we headed back to Restaurante El Barranco for lunch. This time, I decided to try the enchiladas, while Maximilian opted for the carne asada. Elena, still a bit picky with her food, chose a quesadilla. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It felt good to support a local business and to savor the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.

With our bellies full, we decided to visit the Tienda Comunitaria ONORUAME, a local shop that sells traditional crafts and goods. I was eager to find a few souvenirs to take back home, as well as a warmer jacket for Elena. The shop was a treasure trove of colorful textiles, pottery, and jewelry. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven blanket, a few small trinkets for friends, and, of course, a cozy jacket for Elena.


Explore Tienda Comunitaria ONORUAME for authentic Mexican goods and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Creel, Chihuahua.

As the day drew to a close, we returned to Restaurante El Barranco for dinner. We enjoyed a relaxed meal, reminiscing about the day's adventures. The staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel like part of their family. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. As we ate, we discussed our plans for tomorrow: Copper Canyon Adventure Park! I had heard great things about the zip-lining and the via ferrata, and Elena was beyond excited to try them out. Maximilian, ever the cautious one, was a bit more hesitant, but I knew he would come around.

Back at our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. Santa Elena Canyon had exceeded all my expectations. It was a place of immense natural beauty, rich cultural significance, and profound personal meaning. I felt grateful to have had the opportunity to share this experience with my family. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow would bring.

And tomorrow, we are planning to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner again at Restaurante El Barranco, as well as visit the Copper Canyon Adventure Park. I am also hoping that we can find some time to go to Bar Geronimo to try some local drinks.

This trip is turning out to be even more amazing than I had hoped, a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and family bonding. I can't wait to see what else Copper Canyon has in store for us.