Creel, Chihuahua

On New Years Day we boarded the Chihuahua Pacifico Railway (Chepe) for a very civilised and relaxed jaunt to Creel. 

Along the way the scenery was all very nice, but not really spectacular.

Then we noticed random snowflakes outside our window. Soon it was snowing heavily and the ground was turning white.

 Our wonderfully positive attitude had us believing (hoping) that it would soon stop and the sun would come out.

Unfortunately it was not to be. Arriving at the Best Western Lodge was like discovering a white Christmas, inside and out.

We were transported to a very Canadian scene complete with pine logs, chandeliers made of antlers, and animal skins hanging on the walls. We knew, however, that this could not be Northern Ontario, because the largest skin hanging over the fireplace was that of a tiger. What!!!

Deb is ready for lunch (from the breakfast menu).

Outside it really was winter.

Mostly we hunkered down and tried to stay warm. The Mexicans around us had winter boots and hats and scarves, but we just weren't prepared.

Apparently, Creel was our first opportunity to get out and experience some of the amazing features of the Copper Canyon. We did not get out.

As the day went on we met a group of people who were stranded because their van could not handle the winter conditions. Some drivers were trapped because of mudslides on the roads.

We again remained confident that everything would clear and we would be on our way tomorrow. After all, we were on the train. Nothing can stop a train, Right??