Basaseachic Falls

Basaseachic Falls lie in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains of northern Mexico, where two streams join and drop 246 meters (807 feet) over a cliff edge into the Candameña Canyon. A fine mist forms at the point of impact and catches the light differently depending on the time of day and angle of the sun.

European travelers documented the waterfall in the 18th century, which led to the founding of the first settlement near the Mission of Tomochi. The area was later declared a national park to protect the forests and canyon from uncontrolled logging.

The name comes from the Rarámuri language and means place of the wolves, with Basachí referring to coyotes. Hikers today still encounter members of the indigenous community who live in the Sierra and have known the area for centuries.

Several hiking trails lead to the rim or down into the canyon, with the shortest path taking about 15 minutes to the upper viewpoint. The descent to the canyon floor is longer and follows narrow trails that can become slippery after rain.

The surrounding national park is home to over 90 species of conifers and more than 70 species of oak, making it one of the most diverse forest regions in North America. Mountain lions and white-tailed deer move through these woods and are occasionally visible from the trails.