Near the quaint town of Paisley, Oregon, lies the intriguing system of Paisley Caves. These caves, renowned for their archaeological significance, are just a short journey from the Summer Lake Hot Springs campground and resort.
Though initial investigations began in the 1930s, the caves rose to prominence due to groundbreaking archaeological excavations in 2002 and 2008. These digs unveiled human habitation traces that dated back nearly 14,000 years, marking Paisley Caves as one of North America’s most ancient archaeological sites.
Within these caves, researchers unearthed a variety of items – from animal bones and plant remnants to stone implements. But the standout discovery was a collection of miniature baskets, identified as the world’s oldest known basketry samples. The Paisley Caves offer invaluable insights into early human existence in the Americas.
How to Reach Paisley Caves
Situated roughly 7 miles to the south of Paisley town, the caves can be found on the right side of the route. Although the site’s official address is 47225 Highway 31, Paisley, OR 97636, relying on GPS coordinates might be a safer bet.
The path leading to the caves is unpaved and scattered with stones and sagebrush, which might cause minor scratches to your vehicle. As we traversed a cattle grid, we switched to four-wheel drive to navigate the challenging terrain leading to the trailhead, which took almost an hour.
The entrance to Paisley Caves isn’t distinctly marked. However, we deduced a suitable parking spot near a wide clearing at the trailhead’s base. A slender dirt trail atop the rocky cliff connects the entire cave system. If you’re prone to balance issues, consider carrying hiking poles for added stability. Also, it’s wise to carry water, given the absence of modern facilities like restrooms.
Further Adventures around Paisley
After a day of exploration, unwind at the Pioneer Saloon and Restaurant for refreshing drinks and hearty meals. Given Paisley’s compact size, you can’t miss this iconic establishment at the intersection of West and Main streets.
For those eager to delve deeper into Oregon’s Christmas Valley mysteries, the Fort Rock State Natural Area and the Crack in the Ground are worth exploring.
Enjoy your adventure!
