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Mindeleff Cavates: Ancient Cliff Dwellings

Discover ancient Sinagua cave dwellings at Mindeleff Cavates near Camp Verde, Arizona. A unique archaeological hiking experience.

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Explore the intriguing Mindeleff Cavates near Camp Verde, Arizona, a series of hand-carved caves once inhabited by the Sinagua people. These ancient cliff dwellings offer a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants and provide stunning views of the Verde Valley.

A brief summary to Mindeleff Cavates

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rugged.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the best light for photography.
  • Be respectful of the site and do not enter the cavates to help preserve them.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Camp Verde, head south on AZ-260. Turn onto Salt Mine Road and follow it for approximately 8 miles on a rough, winding road. Continue onto the dirt and crushed rock road to Beasley Flat River Access Point. Parking is available near the trailhead. Note that the road can be challenging and requires a vehicle suitable for unpaved surfaces. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    If you are in Camp Verde, you can walk to Mindeleff Cavates. Head southeast on E Ash St, then turn left onto S Main St/AZ-260 E. Walk for about 1.5 miles until you see signs for Mindeleff Cavates. This walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Note that there is no pedestrian infrastructure and you will be walking along a highway.

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Discover more about Mindeleff Cavates

The Mindeleff Cavates, also known as the Mindeleff Cavate Lodge Group, are a remarkable archaeological site located approximately 10 miles southeast of Camp Verde, Arizona. These cavates are hand-carved caves in a canyon wall on the east bank of the Verde River. The site comprises 89 cavates and 367 rooms. Named after Cosmos Mindeleff, a surveyor and architectural draftsman who meticulously documented the site in 1891-92, the cavates offer a unique window into the past. Mindeleff's detailed report, published in 1896, was groundbreaking for its time, emphasizing land use and settlement patterns. The term 'cavate' distinguishes these man-made caves from natural caves used as dwellings. Archaeological evidence suggests that around 250 people lived in these dwellings. The Sinagua people, known for their ingenuity, carved these rooms into the soft sandstone cliffs, creating living spaces, storage areas, and connecting tunnels. Inside, the rooms often feature flat floors, fire pits, and remnants of masonry walls. The ceilings of some caves are blackened from fires built centuries ago. Visiting the Mindeleff Cavates requires a bit of effort, but the reward is an unforgettable experience. The remote location has helped preserve the site, offering a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the ingenuity of the Sinagua people.

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