Top Ten Mexico Classic Adventures

The Copper Canyons have deservedly attained that vaunted traveler's status of  "don't miss." After all, in how many places does supreme desert beauty stand together with a culture that has almost stood still? But before you set out to explore these canyons, check out Mexico's ultimate small town: Creel. Not only is it the starting point for many tours of the canyons, it's also the hub of Mexican mountain biking (the Mexican Mountain Bike Nationals are held here each summer). Located high in the mountains at 2,338 meters (7,670 feet), its great trails will put your two-wheel brain on some tough singletrack. To rent a bike in town, go to Expediciones Umarike, located on the west side of the train tracks south of the train station. Hiking more your thing? Then check out the nearby towns of Batopilas and Cerocahui, both of which offer unlimited opportunities for hiking. And for a guide to the canyons, just ask at your hotel.