Los Mochis is the western gateway to the Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre), one of Mexico's most spectacular natural landscapes. Most travellers pass through on their way to or from the famous Chepe railway, which climbs from sea level into the Sierra Madre Occidental — but the city and its surroundings are worth more than a quick overnight.
The city itself is modern and functional, built on sugar cane money in the early 20th century. It is not particularly beautiful, but it is friendly and well-supplied. The Mercado Independencia is a good place to eat cheaply and pick up supplies before heading into the canyon. Topolobampo, the port town 24 km southwest, has a pleasant waterfront and is the departure point for ferries to La Paz in Baja California Sur.
The Chepe train departs early morning for the 13-hour journey through 86 tunnels and across 37 bridges to Chihuahua. Most people break the trip at Divisadero or Creel. Book first class (Chepe Express) if you want guaranteed windows and a bar car; segunda clase is cheaper and runs a separate schedule. Buying tickets in advance at the station is advisable in high season (October to March).
El Fuerte, a handsome colonial town 80 km northeast, makes a more atmospheric alternative base for the canyon trip — the train stops there too, an hour after Los Mochis.