Adventure Motorcycling
Everything you need to plan and complete the journey of a lifetime.
Why Come to a Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Meeting?
You can meet people who don't think you're crazy for wanting
to ride your bike to South America or Africa or across Asia, or even around
the world! Admit it, all your 'normal' friends and most of your family
fears for your sanity! So, this is your opportunity to meet the people
who will encourage you in that craziness, share their experiences and
advice on how to do it, and maybe you'll meet them again in Mongolia or
Timbuktu!
Sorry, it's all over - and we had a great time! :) Pics and story to come.
As Gerry Elam, USA, said of the Mexico 2003 meeting:
"Thank you Grant and Susan... it was a BLAST! Looking forward
to next year already!"
And from Glen Davis,
"Thanks to all involved for a meeting that exceeded all expectations.
Well done!"
Comments from the 2004 meeting:
From Mike Torst:
"Grant, I want to thank you, once again, for a great meet! I was in the hands of the pros, and I am still in awe. I remain
humbled---thanks again! Oh, and I will CU next year!"
From Jim Donaldson, NC, USA,
"Grant, What can I say. Creel is the perfect place for an HU meet. As my friend Chris
Walstow says it's easily accessible from anywhere in North America. It's warm and cool at the same time. The people are friendly
and the riding is superb. I look for the meet to grow beyond all expectations as the word spreads. Thanks,
Jim D
My pictures and log here."
See you all there!
In case you're wondering why you should go, this is only a small part of the road to Batopilas,
photographed from a helicopter.
Photo courtesy The
3 Amigos Canyon Expeditions in Creel, Mexico. Check them out for excellent maps and Copper Canyon information, 4wd rentals
etc.
The Plan
The general plan is simple. Show up early, at least by Tuesday, or even better Monday, have a drink, tell
some lies, have another drink, eat at a reasonable hour, then slide shows are planned.
2006 speakers:
Grant Johnson - I will be there, and will give a 2 1/2 - 3 hour presentation/discussion: "YOU can
do it - riding to the next continent, or around the world" probably on Thursday afternoon.
Looking for Traction I; Connecting your road experience to less than perfect riding conditions. Includes a discussion of
the four basic off-pavement riding positions, and
Looking for Traction II; Understanding the difference between Counter-Balancing
and Counter-Steering. Includes a discussion of both flat and pitched surfaces. Coach is an off-road racing champion,
and will give a preview of his new book on dual-sport riding to be published by Whitehorse Press.
Cynthia Milton, UK, RTW on an R80G/S, SE Asia and South America presentations and packing
Miguel Angel Fragoso Díaz, Mexico, South American Tour
Russ Darr, USA, packing and planning - two packing presentations - do I see a face-off? ;)
Grant Johnson - why go? A quick RTW tour!
How about you? Let us know if you have something to show! Volunteers wanted! It's easy and fun, we'll even help you out.
Tech Sessions 2006:
Grant Johnson, Photo Composition for Travellers - the one everyone SHOULD take, but no one does...
Grant also did an advanced Photo seminiar which was well attended - we had a great time!
Paved road riding is terrific. It's like this everywhere! You don't need a dirt bike to have
a great time.
Motorcycle Rentals - want to ride a street bike down? Rent a dual sport bike!
Door prizes and a 50-50 Draw!
Door prizes always welcome if you have something you'd like to donate/contribute. All proceeds go to the Riders
for Health organisation
OR to a local Mexican charity when we can arrange it.
Door prizes contributed by:
Horizons Unlimited, t-shirts and HU Achievable Dream DVDs
If you have a few minutes, please download the poster
(Adobe pdf format) and print off a few and hand them round your club
or your local bike shop or anywhere seems like a good place.
(You may need to right click and choose "save target
as...")
We have a NEW location! Still in Creel, a little more off the road, and a very funky place it is - we think you'll love it!
Pueblo Viejo - details on how to get there on the 2007 Meeting page soon.
Photos below taken by Grant on visit after the 2005 meeting.
This is one funky place! Not your usual resort, hotel or motel anywhere, every separate cabin is completely different. Even
the older row cabins are in several different styles, and the dining room and bar are amazing. LOTS of goodies, artifacts
and memorabilia to browse through. And we have it all to ourselves Tuesday through Friday! :)
Just a few of the varied cabin designs at Pueblo Viejo (2005)
One of the rooms.
Courtyard, cabins behind.
Courtyard, cabins around.
Presentation and dining room. This is less than half of it!
"One of the most spectacular trips you can take in Mexico, is to see the canyons by train on the Chihuahua al Pacifico. The views will leave lasting memories. Although riding west to east provides the most daylight views, either way you travel, you'll be happy you did. First class cars, food and drinks are available. Train stops in some areas may also offer the chance to buy some local food, crafts or take in a canyon view. For more details, click here."
Basaseachic Falls
"This incredible waterfall in Parque Nacional Cascada de Basaseachic is breathtaking. It is Mexico's second highest waterfall and can be viewed from the top of the canyon at maintained viewpoints. Guided hiking treks to the bottom are possible for a different view. For more details, click here."
Semana Santa Festivals
"This Tarahumara festival is the held during Easter Week, and gives the visitor a chance to see some of the elaborate
costumes, and traditional dances of these indigenous people. For more details, click
here."
Creel
"Creel is known as the "Gateway to the Copper Canyon". And it is a popular starting point for exploring the canyons. The town has the feeling of a late 19th century logging town and is set high - 2,340 meters (7,669 feet) - in the mountains in a valley surrounded by pine forest. As the canyon's largest town (pop. 6,500), Creel offers lodgings, tours & guides, restaurants, stores, a bank, and the main train station in the canyon. Many visitors will stock up on supplies and information here before their trek through these magnificent canyons.
The town is located 250 kilometers (150 miles) from Chihuahua City and takes about 3-4 hours driving time. You can also take the Chihuahua al Pacifico train from either Los Mochis or Chihuahua. Bus service is also available from Chihuahua.
In Creel, it's worthwhile to visit the local Casa del Artesano Indigena (House of Indigenous Handicrafts) run by the state, and the Artesanías Misíon (Mission Store) run by Father Luis Verplancken with all proceeds going to a local indigenous hospital. Both places offer fine Tarahumara crafts, and you can also find them in local shops along Ave. Lopez Mateos, Creel's main street.
Creel offers clean, but rustic hotels & lodges, guesthouses and camping. You'll also find a small variety of restaurants. Rentals of mountain bikes, hiking equipment, and even horses are available. Creel has a great number of natural attractions nearby and is an eco-tourist's dream location.
Only a few miles away you can experience the Lake Arareko region with it's mountain lake and strange rock formations. Local Tarahumara communities including San Ignacio de Arareko and Cusárare can easily be reached from Creel. Another interesting area is La Cueva de los Leones (Cave of the Lions) with it's many caves in a small valley and rustic lodging. Local tours and guides are available in town."
Editors note: We accept no responsibility for any of the above
information in any way whatsoever. You are reminded to do your own research.
Any commentary is strictly a personal opinion of the person supplying the
information and is not to be construed as an endorsement of any kind.
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