The Rio Oteros is the lesser known Western side of the Divisadero ridge. It is a great hot weather alternative to the scorching Urique canyon bottom. This trek features more Tarahumaran rancherias scattered about the small valleys alternating with canyon narrows. It also shows evidence of pre-Tarahumaran inhabitation. The Oteros River level is about 5000 feet making our descent less strenouous, and it's more comfortable in warmer weather. The canyons aren't as steep, but the area abounds in scenic vistas and challenging trails. The Oteros Trip also offers a unique half-day canyoneering option! Read more about the Train; the hike down to the Rio Urique; or the hike to the town of Urique for the Ultramarathon.

Day Three
We meet our local guides and arrieros (Spanish for burro drivers) after a hearty breakfast. A long gentle descent takes us to a pastoral valley for lunch. Our guide Jilo's dad homesteaded this rancho called Manzano when he was working on the Chihuahua al Pacifico railroad. Not far away, weird rock formations stand sentry over our campsite that night under a brilliant canopy of stars, satellites, planets and meteors.

Day Four
We start hiking after breakfast. Small homesteads nestle in valleys between canyon narrows. You might see a Tarahumaran splitting cedar shingles for a roof, or plowing his tiny, rocky field with a wooden plow pulled by a cow. Typically, oak plowshares are hardened in a fire; so are the oak wedges used to split shingles, using an axehead passed down for generations. Ruins and pictographs give evidence that these locals weren't the first to inhabit these fertile fields.

Day Five
We arrive at the river high up on its journey to the sea. Enjoy hiking and swimming.

Day Six
We leave the river at a narrows. This is the starting point for the canyoneers' route downstream. The river descends abruptly, while we traverse and begin the ascent. Camp is in a remote village inaccessible by vehicle. A small church maintains the Tarahumarans' link to the Catholic religion, and functions as their social center for festivities. These normally shy villagers have begun looking forward to our arrivals.

Day Seven
A leisurely start gives us more time to enjoy this little village. We continue the ascent to a Tarahumaran Rancho for the night.

Day Eight
Corn fields and orchards abound in this broad valley. Peach, plum, and apple trees blossom in the spring. The highest part of this valley shows evidence of a dam. Back at the guesthouse, Hot Showers and cold drinks await us!!!

Day Nine
Breakfast and transfers for the train to El Fuerte which leaves about 12:30.

Day Ten
Breakfast and Transfer to Airport in Los Mochis(LMM)

Escorted Hikes and Burro Expeditions in Mexico's Copper Canyon