Old Caves Crater, Schlackenkegel im Coconino County, Arizona.
Old Caves Crater is a cinder cone in Coconino County, Arizona, formed by past volcanic activity in the high elevation ponderosa pine forest. The landform rises noticeably above the surrounding terrain and contains numerous cave openings along its slopes.
The crater emerged from volcanic eruptions during ancient times, creating the geological feature visible today in the forest landscape. People later settled near this site around the 14th century, using the natural caves for living spaces.
The network of caves distributed across the crater slopes contains archaeological evidence of Sinagua civilization, including dwelling structures and daily life artifacts.
Visitors can reach the crater by following a marked hiking trail through the forest that takes a few hours to complete. Sturdy walking shoes and drinking water are helpful for the journey across uneven ground and changes in elevation.
The caves within the crater slopes reveal how people adapted to living in volcanic terrain centuries ago, with their dwelling sites still visible inside the rock formations. Exploring these spaces today shows the practical way families used the natural cavities for shelter and protection from the weather.
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