Mapimi and The Ojuela Mine
I was sad to leave the City of Chihuahua as there was so much more to explore…next time. We were off to Mapimi, in the state of Durango, for our next designated stop. We took Toll Highways 45 and 49 and they were in fabulous condition. Toll fares varied from $41.00 pesos to $65.00 pesos per bike.
We booked in at the Hotel Viva Villa. It is conveniently located on mainstreet and walking distance to stores, restaurants, and Town Square. The courtyard access to park the bikes was off of the back street. Rooms are spacious, staff are friendly. And the meals cooked in the restaurant are homemade. A definite place to stay at if you are in the area.
The Ojuela Bridge and Mine
I had the opportunity to challenge one of my fears, claustrophobia, by touring The Ojuela Mine just outside of Mapimi.
The road from the highway is gravel, then changes to rock heading up the mountain. It was suggested that my Rebel may have issues getting up and down the rocky road, so I rode two-up on James’s Verseys. The views from the mountainous road are breathtaking…and frightening as the cliff drops beside the road are just as spectacular.
From the parking lot, there is a short walk up to The Ojuela Bridge. The wooden suspension bridge spans a small canyon and is the only way across to The Ojuela Mine. I was surprised at how little the bridge swayed, considering it is a suspension bridge.
Our guide fitted us with hardhats and flashlights and we headed into the darkness. He led us through the mine pointing out interesting items along the way. At the displays our guide was very informative and had the info to answer all of our questions.
I was quite surprised that most of the mine tunnels we went through were tall enough for me to walk through without crouching. Yes, I am 5’2″ so not exactly tall.
There were many interesting displays along the way, including this mummified mule. Displays included information about the area during mining, information about The Bridge, and the minerals found in the mine.
We had a bit of a tough climb out of The Mine back into daylight. Once our eyes adjusted, the view was amazing. It was like we were on top of the world.
Then our Guide said, “Back we go.” Wait….What??? Yes, we had to climb back down into The Mine, through the Mine, and out the entrance.
It was definitely worth the admission and ride up to walk The Bridge and tour The Mine.
Tomorrow…on the road again….