Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico

Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico
The Chepe Express Train
Overview
Service type
LocaleNorthwestern Mexico
PredecessorKansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway
First serviceNovember 22, 1961 (1961-11-22)
Current operatorFerromex
Former operatorFerrocarriles Nacionales de México
WebsiteChepe Express
Route
TerminiChihuahua
Los Mochis
Stops20
Distance travelled668 kilometres (415 mi)
Line usedQ Line
Technical
Rolling stockLocomotives primarily EMD GP38-2 and SD40-2. Coaches are primarily Kinki Sharyo (Japan) Generations 1 through 3.
Track gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) standard gauge

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico (reporting mark CHP), commonly known as the Chepe Express or El Chepe, is a passenger train operated by Ferromex in northwestern Mexico between city of Chihuahua and Los Mochis, crosses the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range.

Stretching approximately 673 km (418 mi), the railway traverses the scenic Copper Canyon region and is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular rail journeys in North America. The route includes 37 bridges and 86 tunnels, reaching elevations of about 2,400 m (7,900 ft) above sea level near Divisadero (the continental divide), a popular lookout spot over the canyons. The service functions both as an important transportation link for local communities and as a major tourist attraction.