Exploring the Majestic Copper Canyon with Friends

Adios, Copper Canyon!

As our incredible journey through Copper Canyon draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a tinge of sadness that our adventure is ending, but it's overwhelmingly overshadowed by gratitude for the experiences we've shared, the sights we've witnessed, and the memories we've created. Today was all about savoring those last moments, both literally and figuratively, before we bid farewell to this majestic landscape.

The day began, as many of our days here have, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante El Barranco. I've grown quite fond of this place. The familiar faces of the staff, the comforting aroma of traditional Mexican dishes, and the stunning views of the canyon have made it a staple of our Copper Canyon experience. I opted for the *huevos rancheros*, a classic that never disappoints, while some of my friends went for the *machaca*, shredded dried beef scrambled with eggs. It was the perfect fuel for our final day of exploration.


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

After breakfast, we decided to visit the Tienda Comunitaria ONORUAME, a local community shop. I was hoping to pick up a few souvenirs, something authentic to remember this trip by. I found a beautiful hand-woven blanket with intricate patterns that seemed to tell a story of the region. Élodie would absolutely love it! I also picked up some small, hand-carved wooden figures for my friends back in Montreal. Supporting local artisans felt like a meaningful way to end our visit, contributing directly to the community that had welcomed us so warmly.


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

For lunch, we returned to Restaurante El Barranco. It felt like a natural choice; we knew the food would be good, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed midday meal. I decided to try something different and ordered the *sopa de tortilla*, a flavorful tomato-based soup with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese. It was absolutely delicious and surprisingly filling. My friends and I shared stories from our trip, reminiscing about our favorite moments: the breathtaking views from the *teleférico*, the exhilarating hikes through the canyons, and the unforgettable train ride on the *Chevo*.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

As the afternoon waned, we took one last walk along the canyon rim, soaking in the panoramic views. The sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical sight, a perfect farewell to Copper Canyon. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment, but I knew that no picture could ever truly do it justice. Some things you just have to experience for yourself.

For our final dinner, we, of course, went back to Restaurante El Barranco. By this point, it felt like our home away from home. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and knowing nods, as if they understood the bittersweetness of our departure. I ordered the *chile relleno*, a poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and covered in a light, fluffy batter. It was the perfect comfort food to end our adventure.

As we ate, we reflected on our time in Copper Canyon. We talked about the incredible landscapes, the unique culture, and the warm hospitality of the people. We agreed that this trip had been an unforgettable experience, one that we would cherish for years to come. I was particularly grateful for having shared this adventure with my friends. Traveling with them made the experience even more special, and I knew that these were memories we would continue to laugh about for a long time.

Looking back on the trip, I realize how much I needed this escape. As a software developer, I spend most of my days immersed in code, staring at a screen. This trip to Copper Canyon was a chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, with myself, and with my friends. It was a reminder that there's a whole world out there waiting to be explored, and that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest things: a beautiful sunset, a challenging hike, a delicious meal shared with friends.

I'm also incredibly thankful that I didn't forget my camera this time! It's become an essential part of my travel kit, allowing me to capture the essence of these incredible places and share them with all of you. And while I did manage to remember it, I am kicking myself for forgetting my portable phone charger and first-aid kit! I will definitely not be making that mistake again.

As I write this, I'm already thinking about my next adventure. Élodie and I have been talking about visiting the Gaspésie region in Quebec. The rugged coastline, the charming villages, and the delicious seafood sound incredibly appealing. But for now, I'll cherish the memories of Copper Canyon, and I'll look forward to sharing more of my travel experiences with you soon.

Although our Copper Canyon adventure has come to an end, the memories and experiences will stay with me forever. It was a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable moments with friends. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have explored this majestic region of Mexico, and I look forward to sharing more of my travel adventures with you all soon.

Thank you for following along on this incredible journey! Stay tuned for more adventures to come!

P.S. I'm already dreaming of the *crème brûlée* Élodie will make when I get back to Montreal. It's the perfect way to end any adventure! I might even try to replicate some of the delicious Mexican dishes I've tasted here. Wish me luck! I really hope I can find a new adventure to share with you all soon!

As this trip comes to a close, I am not planning anything for tomorrow. We will be heading back home, and I am very much looking forward to seeing my wife and getting back to my routines.