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Cueva de la Olla
In the late 1800s, this area was known as “Cave Valley” and was one of the places settled by Mormons who left the United States for Mexico. Good land and perennial water attracted settlers. Numerous shelter “caves”, many containing archeological sites, are close by. Today this area is known for the Cueva de la Olla (“The Cave of the Pot”) - the best known archeological site of this area. Its most unique feature is the eight-foot tall pot-shaped vessel which dominates the front of the overhanging shelter. Until recent years, the site was unsupervised. Now a custodian is present to keep track of the site and assist visitors. A new road is being constructed from the valley through the mountains to the south. This has already shortened the drive to El Willy and the Cueva de la Olla considerably, however approximately nine miles of the original rocky road still exist into the community of El Willy. The road from El Willy to the archeological site is unchanged. Regular passenger cars are not recommended. El Willy is a small community which is struggling in today’s economy. Previously a small lumber mill provided some jobs. After the mill closed, few alternatives were available. Some people have seasonal homes while others tend small herds of cattle on outlying ranches. On weekend afternoons, it can be a
good place to watch some friendly yet spirited competition as people gather to see who is the best calf roper.
Once you arrive at the end of the road, Cueva de la Olla is a few minutes walk up a steep rock slope from the parking area so bring good walking shoes. Visitors can climb into the shelter’s entrance. The shelter’s mouth looks down into the Valley of the Caves providing a nice view. Interpretive signs in English and Spanish describe some background on what is being seen. Shelter caves similar to this one are found throughout the Valley of the Caves. While the archeological contents are not as spectacular as here, nevertheless a picture is created of an area which had much human activity in the time frame of 950-1060 AD.
The round pot most likely served as granary storage for the inhabitants. It is the only one of its kind in this immediate area. Below the Cueva de la Olla, additional shelters with archeological materials can be found and explored. Both structures and pictographs are found. These areas are available on a self-guided basis and are not marked. Having a guide who is familiar with the area
Once you arrive at the end of the road, Cueva de la Olla is a few minutes walk up a steep rock slope from the parking area so bring good walking shoes. Visitors can climb into the shelter’s entrance. The shelter’s mouth looks down into the Valley of the Caves providing a nice view. Interpretive signs in English and Spanish describe some background on what is being seen. Shelter caves similar to this one are found throughout the Valley of the Caves. While the archeological contents are not as spectacular as here, nevertheless a picture is created of an area which had much human activity in the time frame of 950-
The round pot most likely served as granary storage for the inhabitants. It is the only one of its kind in this immediate area. Below the Cueva de la Olla, additional shelters with archeological materials can be found and explored. Both structures and pictographs are found. These areas are available on a self-
is recommended. Not every shelter cave contains archeological materials. In addition to this site, there are numerous other small ones around the El Willy community. None are marked in any way and local help is required. The Valley of the Caves is the best place to see the most archeological sites in one area. Downstream from Cueva de la Olla, you will encounter a nice spring emerging from the rock embankment. The water is clear and good to drink. The side canyons are full of trees and shady. For birders, trogons have been heard here. Be sure to keep an eye out for the occasional rattlesnake as well.
This site has minimal facilities so bring any required food and water. Visitors interested in archeology should also visit the sites around Cuarenta Casas (Forty Houses) located in the western part of Chihuahua north of Madera. There are several locations containing archeological materials and a spectacular canyon-bottom thermal spring. Our office can provide details.
This site has minimal facilities so bring any required food and water. Visitors interested in archeology should also visit the sites around Cuarenta Casas (Forty Houses) located in the western part of Chihuahua north of Madera. There are several locations containing archeological materials and a spectacular canyon-
Artwork in a small shelter cave along the canyon bottom.
An archeological site along the river below El Willy.
Cueva de la Olla is the only site of its kind in this area.
Frequently the calf wins but not this time.