Creel

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
Copper Canyon near Creel Mexico
David Broad, Wikimedia Commons

Creel, a designated "Pueblo Mágico" in the Sierra Tarahumara of Chihuahua, serves as a gateway to the majestic Copper Canyon, offering a blend of natural beauty and indigenous Rarámuri culture. Visitors can explore dramatic rock formations, serene lakes, and powerful waterfalls, as well as engage with local traditions and crafts. It is a prime destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural immersion within a mountainous landscape.

While Creel does not have specific districts known for a vibrant party scene, the central square, or Zócalo, acts as a community hub where locals and visitors often gather. Participating in organized tours, especially non-private options, provides an excellent opportunity to meet and socialize with other travelers exploring the region.

Top 5 Things to do in Creel

Creel offers a variety of experiences, from immersing oneself in indigenous Rarámuri culture to exploring dramatic natural landscapes and engaging in outdoor adventures.

1. Explore Lake Arareko and the Valleys of Mushrooms, Frogs, and Monks, with San Ignacio Mission

Just outside Creel, visitors can find the serene, U-shaped Lake Arareko, reflecting the surrounding pine forests. This tranquil spot is ideal for relaxing or taking a leisurely hike around its interesting rock formations. Nearby, the Valleys of the Mushrooms, Frogs, and Monks showcase unique rock formations that resemble their namesakes, offering picturesque opportunities for exploration and photography. While some find these formations subtly interesting, the natural setting is undeniably beautiful. A visit to the 18th-century San Ignacio Mission, a simple stone church still used by the local Rarámuri, provides a glimpse into their spiritual life and history. Combining these sites offers a concise overview of the local natural beauty and indigenous presence.

Cost: Access to Lake Arareko is approximately 40 MXN for adults and 20 MXN for children (if arriving by vehicle). Paddleboat rentals are available for about 100 MXN per hour, and horseback riding for around 100 MXN for half an hour. Many local tours combine these sites, with prices varying. A private half-day tour visiting these locations can start from around $37.25 USD per person for groups of 5 or more, or around $433 USD for a private tour.

Transport: Lake Arareko is about 7-10 km from Creel. Local buses from Creel's main terminal to the Arareko area typically cost 20-30 MXN and take about 30 minutes. Taxis from Creel to Lake Arareko generally range from 150-500 MXN and take 15-20 minutes. The valleys and San Ignacio Mission are in close proximity to Lake Arareko, often included in the same tours or easily accessible by taxi or rented vehicle. Renting a car in Chihuahua City is an option, or hiring local taxi drivers for about 800 MXN per day.

2. Visit Cusárare Waterfall and Cusárare Mission

Experience the beauty of Cusárare Waterfall, considered one of the most picturesque in the Sierra Tarahumara. The water plunges 30 meters into a pool amidst a pine forest. While its flow is strongest during and after the rainy season (August to October), it is still worth seeing year-round. A descent of 280 steps leads to the base for a closer view. Nearby is the Cusárare Mission and its associated museum, offering insights into local history and art. This area provides a blend of natural wonder and cultural discovery.

Cost: The entry cost for Cusárare Waterfall is approximately 40 MXN per person. A bus from Creel to the foot of the road leading to the waterfall costs around 50 MXN. This activity is often part of combined tours. A 6-hour private tour including Cusárare Waterfall and other nearby sites starts from about $37.25 USD per person for 5+ people.

Transport: Cusárare Waterfall is located about 22 km from Creel. Visitors can take a local bus from Creel towards Guachochi (state highway #23) to kilometer 24, from where a 3 km dirt road leads to the waterfall. Alternatively, a taxi can be hired. The road can be bumpy.

3. Day Trip to Basaseachi Falls National Park

Embark on a day trip to Basaseachi Falls National Park to witness Mexico's second-tallest waterfall, standing at 246 meters. This impressive natural wonder flows into the Candameña Canyon, carved over millions of years. The park is characterized by its pine-oak forests, dramatic rock formations, and scenic cliff views. It is a significant highlight of the Copper Canyon region and offers opportunities for hiking and appreciating vast landscapes.

Cost: While a specific park entrance fee in recent articles was not found, there is a small fee to enter the park. Driving to Basaseachi Falls from Creel can cost between 250-380 MXN in gas. A private tour to Basaseachi Falls can cost around $79.75 USD per person for groups of 5 or more.

Transport: Basaseachi Falls National Park is located approximately 133 km from Creel by road. Driving takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Public bus options involve transfers and can take over 5 hours, with costs ranging from 390-1600 MXN. Taxis are also an option, costing around 800-1000 MXN.

4. Immerse in Rarámuri Culture at Museo Casa de las Artesanías and a Tarahumara Cave Dwelling

Engage with the rich culture of the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people, who are indigenous to this region. Start at the Museo Casa de las Artesanías (Museum of Handicrafts) in Creel to view a collection of photographs and learn about Rarámuri traditions and their way of life, including their renowned long-distance running abilities. Further explore their heritage by visiting a traditional Tarahumara cave dwelling, some of which are still inhabited and open to visitors for a unique cultural glimpse. This offers a direct opportunity to understand their ancient customs and support their craftwork.

Cost: Entry to the Museo Casa de las Artesanías is minimal, about 10 MXN. Visiting a Tarahumara cave dwelling typically has no official entrance fee, but a small donation is appreciated. These experiences are often part of local tours around Creel.

Transport: The Museo Casa de las Artesanías is in Creel, easily accessible by walking from the town center. Some Tarahumara cave dwellings, like Cueva de Sebastian, are a few kilometers from Creel (e.g., San Sebastian cave is about 3.4 km). They can be reached by walking, renting a bicycle, or as part of a local tour. A taxi for a day to explore sites around Creel, including caves, can cost around 800 MXN.

5. Experience the Copper Canyon through the El Chepe Train or Adventure Park

While Creel is the gateway, the deeper Copper Canyon experience can be explored via the renowned El Chepe train, considered one of North America's best railroad adventures. The train journey offers unparalleled views of the majestic canyon landscapes. For thrill-seekers, the Copper Canyon Adventure Park (Parque de Aventuras Barrancas del Cobre), accessible from Divisadero (a train stop after Creel), provides activities like ziplining and cable car rides over the vast canyon system, offering an adrenaline-pumping way to appreciate the scale of this natural wonder.

Cost: El Chepe train tickets vary by class and distance, with prices starting from approximately 700 MXN. Tour packages that include Chepe train tickets and park activities are also available. Specific costs for ziplining or cable car rides at the Adventure Park are part of the park's offerings.

Transport: Creel is a major stop on the El Chepe train route, which connects cities like Chihuahua and Los Mochis. Divisadero, where the Adventure Park is located, is about an hour by bus or train from Creel. Buses run frequently between Creel and Divisadero.

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