From Creel to Divisidero

Nov. 10, 2006

We departed Creel the next morning. As we traveled west the mountain scenery became more rugged and dramatic. We crossed the continental divide at an altitude of about 8000 feet; from here on the trip is essentially downhill to the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California).

At one point the railroad track circles by 360 degrees and crosses back under itself; this is called, "The Loop".

Our destination for today was Divisidero, which is a small village perched on the edge of the Copper Canyon. The name "Copper" originates from the color of the rocks in the canyon, not from copper mining.

The deck of our railroad car was a convenient place for lunch and refreshments later in the day.

We are having lunch on the railroad car and enjoying the warm sunshine. (photo courtesy of Pat Manning)

Our guide led us on a hike to some scenic view points; this is the view looking back on our train and the village of Divisidero. The large building perched at the edge of the cliff is the hotel.

The Copper Canyon "unfolded" before us.

Some of the Tarahumara live in "caves", which are actually places where there is a hollow in the rock. They add a wall across the front to make an enclosure; it is a cheap form of housing.

Another Tarahumara cave.

We made a stop at the home of Pancho, who makes violins for a living. The violins are meant as wall decorations, not to be played. He did play one that he had made for himself.

Later we went to a demonstration of basket weaving by a Tarahumara woman, who we found out was Pancho's wife. The violins are ones he carved. She is weaving a basket from pine needles; some of her handiwork is laid out in front of her.