Hidden beneath the rugged terrain of the Chihuahuan Desert in southeastern New Mexico lies one of nature’s most awe-inspiring underground wonders—Carlsbad Caverns National Park. With more than 119 known caves formed by sulfuric acid dissolution, the park offers visitors a surreal experience filled with towering cave formations, deep caverns, and a wide array of surface beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or casual tourist, there’s something for everyone in this subterranean gem.
Here are the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
1. Take the Natural Entrance Trail
Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Caverns (image: NPS)
For those looking for a dramatic and immersive introduction to the caverns, the Natural Entrance Trail is a must. This 1.25-mile trail descends approximately 750 feet into the Earth, offering a self-guided tour past dark, spiraling tunnels and stunning formations. It’s a bit steep, but well worth the effort for the breathtaking views along the way.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a light jacket—the caverns stay around 56°F (13°C) year-round.
2. Explore the Big Room
The Big Room is the park’s main attraction—and for good reason. It’s the largest single cave chamber by volume in North America, covering more than 8 acres. You’ll walk past features like the Hall of Giants, Rock of Ages, and the Bottomless Pit. The loop trail is easy to navigate and fully accessible, making it perfect for all ages.
Duration: Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a full circuit.
3. Watch the Bat Flight Program
From late spring through early fall, visitors can witness a truly magical event: hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats spiraling out of the cave entrance at dusk. The Bat Flight Amphitheater, located near the Natural Entrance, hosts this free ranger-led program where you’ll learn about the bats’ behavior and the ecosystem they support.
Best time: July and August offer the most dramatic flights as baby bats join the swarm.
4. Join a Ranger-Guided Tour
While the Big Room and Natural Entrance are self-guided, the park offers special ranger-guided tours to more remote and adventurous areas. These tours often require crawling, climbing, and squeezing through narrow passages, so they’re ideal for thrill-seekers. Popular tours include:
- King’s Palace Tour – Features stunning draperies and columns.
- Left Hand Tunnel Tour – A lantern-lit experience showcasing untouched cave formations.
- Slaughter Canyon Cave – A wild cave tour with no artificial lighting or walkways.
Reservations are highly recommended and sometimes required.
5. Hike the Desert Trails
While the caverns are the main draw, don’t overlook the above-ground beauty of the park. Several desert hiking trails offer sweeping views, native plants, and the chance to spot wildlife such as mule deer, roadrunners, and lizards.
- Guadalupe Ridge Trail – A longer hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Rattlesnake Springs – A lush oasis and prime spot for birdwatching.
Bring plenty of water—temperatures can soar in the desert!
6. Stargazing and Night Sky Programs
Thanks to its remote location and low light pollution, Carlsbad Caverns is a designated International Dark Sky Park. On clear nights, you can witness a dazzling display of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. During summer, rangers often host night sky programs that include telescope viewing and astronomy talks.
7. Visit the Visitor Center and Museum
Before or after your underground adventure, stop by the Visitor Center. Here, you can watch an orientation video, explore exhibits about cave geology and history, and check out the bookstore for maps, souvenirs, and field guides. It’s also the place to get tour tickets and ranger schedules.
8. Photography and Cave Artistry
Carlsbad Caverns offers incredible opportunities for photography, especially for those who enjoy capturing unique lighting, textures, and natural formations. From stalactites and stalagmites to massive columns and cave pools, there’s no shortage of breathtaking subjects.
Tripods are allowed but should not disrupt others—be mindful in narrow areas.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Southeastern New Mexico, near the town of Carlsbad.
- Hours: The cave typically opens from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entrance at 3:30 PM.
- Fees: Entry is $15 per adult (free with an America the Beautiful pass).
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and full bat flights.
Final Thoughts
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is more than just a hole in the ground—it’s a journey into a hidden world of mystery, beauty, and geological wonder. Whether you’re descending into the depths of the Earth, watching bats soar into the sunset, or gazing up at a sky full of stars, this national park offers unforgettable moments for every type of traveler. Don’t miss the chance to explore this underground marvel.