Cusarare Falls Trail

The Cusarare Falls Trail begins at Ejido Cusarare, about 21 kilometres south of Creel along the Carretera Creel-Cusarare, and is reached by combi, taxi, or as a stop on Copper Canyon day tours; a small entrance fee is collected by the local ejido at the trailhead. The out-and-back path covers about 3 kilometres and descends roughly 80 metres through pine forest to a viewing platform facing the 30-metre Cusarare waterfall, one of the more accessible falls in the Sierra Tarahumara. The surface is packed dirt with some stone steps near the final descent to the platform, and shade from pine cover keeps most of the walk comfortable even at midday. The trail passes the Mision San Ignacio de Cusarare near the start and follows the Rio Cusarare downstream before reaching the falls overlook, which is the recommended turnaround point; a rougher informal path continues toward the base of the falls but is slick when wet. There are no shelters along the route, though vendors near the trailhead sell drinks and snacks. Water flow peaks during and just after the July-to-September rainy season, when the falls are at their most dramatic, while the dry season from October to May offers firmer footing and easier walking, if a thinner curtain of water. The short distance and modest elevation change make this one of the more approachable hikes near Creel, suitable for visitors with limited time or hiking experience.