carlsbad caverns tour times

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Carlsbad Caverns' stalagmites and stalactites formed thousands of years ago when the New Mexico climate was much wetter.

More Than 119 Caves Are Hidden Beneath The New Mexico Desert

Location: new mexico established: may 14, 1930 size: 46,766 acres.

The Chihuahuan Desert, studded with spiky plants and lizards, offers little hint that what Will Rogers called the "Grand Canyon with a roof on it" waits underground. Yet, at this desert's northern reaches, underneath the Guadalupe Mountains, lies one of the deepest, largest, and most ornate caverns ever found.

Water molded this underworld four to six million years ago. Some 250 million years ago, the region lay underneath the inland arm of an ancient sea. Near the shore grew a limestone reef. By the time the sea withdrew, the reef stood hundreds of feet high, later to be buried under thousands of feet of soil. Some 15 to 20 million years ago, the ground uplifted. Naturally occurring sulfuric acid seeped into cracks in the limestone, gradually enlarging them to form a honeycomb of chambers. Millions of years passed before the cave decoration began. Then, drop by drop, limestone-laden moisture built an extraordinary variety of glistening formations—some six stories tall; others tiny and delicate.

Cave scientists have explored more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) of passageways of the main cavern of Carlsbad , and investigation continues. Visitors may tour three of these miles (five kilometers) on a paved trail. Slaughter Canyon Cave provides the hardy an opportunity to play caver, albeit with a guide. The park has more than a hundred other caves open primarily to specialists.

Some visitors think the park's most spectacular sight is the one seen at the cave's mouth. More than a quarter million Brazilian (Mexican) free-tailed bats summer in a section of the cave, and around sunset they spiral up from the entrance to hunt for insects. The nightly exodus led to the discovery of the cave in modern times. Around the turn of the 20th century, miners began to excavate bat guano—a potent fertilizer—for shipment to the citrus groves of southern California. One of the guano miners, James Larkin White, became the first to explore and publicize the caverns beyond Bat Cave.

How to Get There

The park is off US 62/180, 20 miles southwest of Carlsbad and 164 miles east of El Paso, Texas. For the visitor center, turn west at Whites City and drive seven miles. For Slaughter Canyon, turn west on County Road 418, five miles south of Whites City; drive another 11 miles, some unpaved, to the parking lot. Airports: Carlsbad, New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas.

Year-round. The weather underground remains a constant 56°F. The main cavern gets crowded, especially in summer and on major holiday weekends. Either spring or fall, when the desert's in bloom, is an excellent time to go. You'll see the bats fly from April or mid-May through October.

How to Visit

One full day allows you time to tour the main cavern and take a nature walk or a drive before watching the bats fly at sunset. For a second day's activity, reserve space on a tour of "unimproved" Slaughter Canyon Cave, if you're ready for a more rugged caving experience.

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At the visitor center, select either the Natural Entrance Tour or the Big Room Tour (both are 1.25-mile walks). Try the first unless you have walking, breathing, or heart problems. It starts at the natural entrance and is mostly downhill, except for one stretch where you climb 83 feet; an elevator whisks you back to ground level. The Natural Entrance Tour is more intimate and may be less crowded than the Big Room.

The Big Room Tour begins with an elevator ride directly to the Big Room, in which you can see most of the types of formations visible in areas of the cave not open to the public. If after this tour you want to see more caves, take the elevator back up to ground level and proceed with the first half of the Natural Entrance Tour.

Another option, the Kings Palace Tour visits the stunning formations in the scenic rooms.

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The Ultimate Guide to Carlsbad Caverns National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Amar Hussain

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779 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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Where Is Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

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Carlsbad Caverns National Park stretches over 46,766 acres of land, including deserts, caves, and forests. This national park is in southeastern New Mexico and part of the Guadalupe Mountains. Each year, nearly half a million visitors come to this national park to explore the caverns and the surrounding desert land that makes up the park. This remarkable park has an incredible natural and cultural history just waiting for you to explore. 

How To Get to Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in Carlsbad, New Mexico. This park is part of the Guadalupe Mountains in the southeastern part of the state. This national park is on an arid plateau in the Chihuahuan Desert and features a mesmerizing cave system. 

There are several airport options for visitors coming to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Each airport will have a bit of a drive to the park entrance. Let’s take a look at some of the options for flying into the Carlsbad Caverns National Park area. 

Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM)

Cavern City Air Terminal is a public-use airport in Carlsbad. This airline is only a 15-minute drive from Carlsbad Caverns National Park.  Cavern City Air Terminal exclusively services Boutique Air and offers flights to and from Albuquerque (ABQ) and Dallas Fort Worth (DFW). 

CNM doesn’t have as many flights and airlines as some of the international airports. Still, it could be a great option for connecting flights to the Carlsbad area. This might be one of the best ways to maximize your travel time to the park.

El Paso International Airport (ELP)

El Paso International Airport is the closest major airport to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This airport is 145 miles away from the park, and it takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive to the park. 

ELP offers nonstop flights to many U.S. destinations, including Atlanta (ATL), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), and Phoenix (PHX). Airlines serviced by this airport include American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United.

There are several options at El Paso International Airport for rental cars to help you to make it through the last leg of your journey to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, including Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and Payless. 

El Paso International Airport offers many flights and airlines, making it an excellent choice for visitors choosing to fly into the Carlsbad Caverns National Park area.

While it is a longer distance from the park than others, it is well worth the drive as it has so much to offer than the other regional options.

Roswell Air Center (ROW)

Roswell Air Center is located in Roswell, New Mexico. This airport is 1.5 hours from Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

ROW offers flights to and from Roswell from Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) and Phoenix (PHX) exclusively with American. Even though Roswell Air Center has limited airlines and flight options, this could be an excellent option for traveling to Carlsbad Caverns National Park as it is one of the closest options available. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park has only 1 entrance road, which is located on the Carlsbad Caverns Highway. The Carlsbad Caverns Highway is accessed from U.S. Highway 62/180. The entrance road is a 7-mile scenic drive from Whites City to the visitor center.

One of the most stressful parts of any vacation is planning your travels. For visitors who want to let someone else take care of the stress of driving, a bus is an excellent option for arriving at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Greyhound services the Carlsbad area . The closest stations to Carlsbad Caverns are just a short 5-minute walk away. Let someone else take care of the stress of driving and reserve your tickets for your bus journey to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. 

The only way to get around Carlsbad Caverns National Park is on foot. Guest will park their vehicles at the visitor center, and the rest of the time in the park will be spent on foot. The National Park Service offers printable and interactive maps on its website to help you plan your park excursions.

What To See and Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

While most people come to Carlsbad Caverns National Park to explore the caves, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at this national park. From Night Sky Programs to watching bats flee from their nests, there’s something every visitor at this park. Let’s explore the top activities at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. 

The Bat Flight Program is an amazing event for visitors to experience at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This program takes place each night from early spring to the middle of October. The Bat Flight Program offers visitors a spectacular view of 200,000 to 500,000 bats leaving the cave as they head out to hunt for the night. This is a free event that takes place at the Bat Flight Amphitheater.

Be sure to plan to experience this incredible event when you visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park for unforgettable memories.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert, which is an incredible place to view the night sky .

Throughout the year, park rangers offer night sky talks and hikes from July to October. Some of the sights that can be seen include the Perseids meteor shower, the supermoon, the Draconids meteor shower, and the International Space Station.

Participating in one of the night sky programs at Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an exciting way to experience the wonders of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. 

Ranger-guided tours are offered throughout the year, but the best selection of these tours is offered during the summer months. The majority of the ranger-guided tours take visitors through the caverns. Some of the popular tours include Lower Cave, Hall of the White Giant, Slaughter Canyon Cave, and the King’s Palace.

There are additional fees involved with ranger-guided tours through the cave, and reservations can be made in advance. Exploring the caverns with a ranger is the best way to learn about how this cavern was formed, the animals that live in it, and its history. 

There are 2 trails for self-guided tours through Carlsbad Caverns. Exploring these trails on your own is an exciting way to discover the beauty of the cave formations and allows you to experience what cave exploration might have been like long ago. 

The first trail is the Big Room Trail. This is the most popular route as it provides sensational views, an up-close look at cave formations of all sizes, and even a rope ladder that was used in 1924 by explorers. This trail is 1.25 miles long and takes about an hour and a half to walk it. There’s even a shorter option which is about 45 minutes long that takes guests to the Big Room, should you be in a time crunch. 

The other trail available for self-guided tours is the Natural Entrance Trail. This trail is 1.25 miles long and very steep. This trail will lead visitors on the same path as the early explorers and take you to see formations including Devil’s Spring, Iceberg Rock, and the Whale’s Mouth. Self-guided tours allow you to explore the cave at your own pace. These tours are an incredible way to experience Carlsbad Caverns National Park. 

The visitor center is a great starting point for your Carlsbad Caverns National Park adventure. The visitor center features hands-on exhibits that explain the formation of the caverns, teach about the animals and plants of the park, as well as share the history of the park. The visitor center also has a park film, gift shop, restaurant, and bookstore should you want to grab a bite to eat or a souvenir to take home with you. 

Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Most people are excited to see the famous bats that make their home in the park, but there is also a wide variety of other animals that call this park home. 

There are 67 types of mammals in the park, close to 400 bird species, and several other types of animals like reptiles and insects. Some of the animals you are likely to see when visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park include bats, ringtails, deer, squirrels, woodpeckers, and sheep. 

For those who enjoy birdwatching, head over to Rattlesnake Springs. This desert wooded area has been declared an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, meaning it is a spectacular place to watch the birds that live in the park area. 

Wildlife viewing is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy lifestyle and enjoy the animals in their natural habitat.

Best Times To Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open year-round. No matter what time of year you visit, you can rest assured that you will have an incredible experience. Still, if there are certain sights or activities you’d like to participate in, there may be a better time than others to plan your visit.

If you want to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park when the weather is ideal, plan to visit during the month of April. With temperatures at a comfortable 73 degrees during the day and typically just 1 day of rain for the entire month, April is the best month to enjoy the park. This is also a great time to view wildlife, and the crowds haven’t started up just yet. April is, overall, an incredible month to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Exploring a national park without having to deal with crowds and traffic is an ideal way to experience a new place. If you hope to avoid crowds when visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you should plan to come in the month of January. There are fewer crowds right after the holidays, and the colder weather tends to deter visitors. Plan your trip in the month of January for a solitary experience you’ll remember forever. 

Wildlife viewing is one of the most popular activities at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. There is a wide variety of animals to see both in the cave and on the land. For the best opportunities for wildlife viewing, the best month to visit to see the animals that make their home in this national park is in May. It is an especially good time to see the bats that migrate to the park.

Traveling always brings extra expenses, but there are times when you can travel to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and save money at the same time. A trip in the month of January can save quite a bit of money. This month is still in the low season, where visitors aren’t as likely to come.

January temperatures also deter visitors since it can be quite chilly, with lows averaging 31 degrees and high temperatures reaching 54 degrees. Since this is the low season, you will also find lower prices on flights and accommodations.

A trip to Carlsbad National Park in the month of January is a great way to have an experience of a lifetime while going easy on your budget.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a long list of programs on a regular schedule throughout the year. There are also several events that take place on an annual basis both in and near the park. Check out some of the popular events that happen in Carlsbad Caverns National Park to see if you would like to plan your visit around one of them. 

CavernFest takes place each year in the city of Carlsbad, near the park. This 2-day event takes place each year in June and has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

The biggest draw to CavernFest is the live music featuring headliners and up-and-coming groups and artists. Food enthusiasts love CavernFest, as there are over 30 food trucks serving unique culinary creations from around the world.

There is also a beer garden, over 100 vendors, inflatables, and tournaments for cornhole and volleyball. There is so much to do and see at CavernFest that you may just want to plan your Carlsbad Caverns National Park visit so that you can experience this exciting event at the same time. 

Dawn of the Bats

Dawn of the Bats takes place on the third Saturday of July each year at the Bat Flight Amphitheater in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This free event is a time when visitors can see the return of the Brazilian free-tailed bats from their migration.

During Dawn of the Bats, the park offers bat-related activities during the day at the visitor center , and at the end of the day, visitors will gather at the Bat Flight Amphitheater for the Bat Flight Program.

This event is a spectacular sight that the whole family can enjoy at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. If you are able to plan your trip and participate in the Dawn of the Bats, you will leave with memories to last a lifetime. 

National Park Week

National Park Week is celebrated throughout the nation each year in April. Carlsbad Caverns National Park celebrates National Park Week with additional programs, activities, and workshops. When visiting the park during this week, you also have the chance to see Carl S. Bat, the resident bat mascot, in different areas of the park.

Another added bonus of visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park during National Park Week is that all of the entry fees are waived, allowing a completely free experience. Visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park during National Park Week will allow for special experiences that can’t be enjoyed during any other time of the year. 

Where To Stay in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

There are very few options for lodging in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, so it’s either primitive camping or setting up a home base in one of the nearby communities. There’s a perfect solution for your accommodation needs in or near Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

The only option for lodging in Carlsbad Caverns National Park is to set up camp for the night and sleep under the stars.

There are no developed campgrounds in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, so the only option for those wanting to stay inside the park is to camp in the backcountry. For those who choose primitive camping as their lodging, a free permit must be obtained at the visitor center upon arrival. Camping in the great outdoors is an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. 

There are 2 towns that make great places to stay near Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Both towns are nearly an hour and a half away from the park.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Carlsbad is about 50 miles from the park and has several options for lodging, dining, and recreation. There is a variety of accommodations, including family-owned bed and breakfasts, chain hotels budget, friendly motels, and campgrounds. No matter which style of lodging you prefer, you will find exactly what you’re looking for in Carlsbad. 

The dining scene is a treat, with several locally-owned restaurants, bars, and cafes around the city. Some favorite restaurants include barbecue joints, authentic Mexican restaurants, and steakhouses. There are also several chain fast food options, should you need to grab something in a hurry. 

Carlsbad is in an incredible location for visitors who enjoy adventure. There are numerous opportunities to hike, sightsee, swim, and explore in this town. It’s also in close proximity to 2 national parks, a national forest, several state parks, and the Pecos River.

Carlsbad makes an excellent home away from home during your Carlsbad Caverns National Park vacation. It’s got everything you need and more for a fantastic trip.

Whites City, New Mexico

Whites City is about 80 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This city is an awesome place to set up a base camp during your national park vacation. Whites City has a few options for lodging, including RV parks and campgrounds, a lovely resort, and budget-friendly motels. Whether you want to sleep under the stars or under a roof, there is something for every traveler.

There are several places to eat, including authentic cultural restaurants and locally-owned diners. If you can’t find what you are craving, you are in close proximity to other towns with more options. 

For recreation, Whites City is in a wonderful location for cave tours, scenic drives, and nature and wildlife tours. From hiking to biking, from fishing to swimming, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. With its convenience to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and several options for lodging, dining, and recreation, Whites City is an excellent choice for a home base during your vacation.

Where to Eat In and Near Carlsbad Caverns National Park

There are a couple of options for dining in Carlsbad Caverns National Park and several places nearby. No matter if you want to eat within the park’s boundaries or if you want to venture further out for more variety, you can find the perfect solution to what you crave in and near Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Should you start to get hungry when exploring Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you are in luck, as this national park has a restaurant right inside its visitor center.

Carlsbad Caverns Restaurant serves a variety of hot and cold meals, with excellent customer service and a lovely dining room where you can rest up from your park adventures. Some of the options on the menu include fresh salads, baked fish, quesadillas, veggie burgers, and hot panini sandwiches. 

You can’t ask for a more convenient place to dine than Carlsbad Caverns Restaurant in the visitor center at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This is the perfect place to take a quick break from your explorations, refuel, and get right back to the fun. 

El Jimador is a top-rated restaurant just 20 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves authentic Mexican cuisine. 

The menu at El Jimador seems endless and features Mexican favorites like burritos, nachos, fajitas, and signature dishes that will satisfy every palate. Customers rave about the specialty burritos, sizzling fajitas, and margaritas. El Jimador is a great place to enjoy a fantastic meal, listen to live local music, and recuperate from your park adventures. 

Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company is a highly-ranked restaurant just 17 miles from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This family-owned brewery is located in Carlsbad and offers a family-friendly environment featuring live music and an exceptional menu.

The fantastic menu features brick oven pizzas, sub sandwiches, paninis, salads, and appetizers. Some of the favorite dishes of locals and tourists include the New Mexico Green Chile Chicken Pizza, the Extreme Nachos, and the Create Your Own Pizzas. 

Those who love a cold glass of beer are in for a treat at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company. The brewery features 12 taps of delicious craft beer for you to try. For an incredible meal and relaxing environment, be sure to stop in at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company during your trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

The Lucky Bull is a favorite restaurant of locals and tourists in Carlsbad, approximately 20 miles from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This restaurant is open each weekday for lunch and dinner and also has a tap room with an incredible selection of local brews on tap. 

This top-ranked restaurant is an American bar that serves creative dishes with a Southwestern flair. The menu features high-quality hand-cut steaks, sizzling burgers, and massive nacho entrees. Favorite dishes include the Pecos Valley Poutine, the hand-cut rib eye steak, and the hand-battered country-fried steak.

The Lucky Bull offers karaoke nights and trivia nights and features live music on a regular schedule. Be sure to drop by while visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park for an amazing meal and a fun time.

Yellow Brix Restaurant is 20 miles down the road from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner and serves authentic, homemade food made to order with top-quality ingredients.

There’s something for every palate at Yellow Brix, including tapas, sandwiches, soups, and salads. This restaurant also has an impressive wine and beer menu. Some of the dishes loved by locals and visitors alike include chicken cordon bleu, BRIX meatloaf, tenderloin carne asada, and the green chile cheeseburger. Whatever you find yourself craving, you can find exactly what your tastebuds need at Yellow Brix Restaurant.

With its close proximity to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and its extraordinary menu, you will want to add Yellow Brix Restaurant to your itinerary when visiting this part of New Mexico.

1. A New National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park was established as Carlsbad Cave National Monument on October 25, 1923, by President Calvin Coolidge. On May 14, 1930, the park was established as Carlsbad Caverns National Park by Congress. 

2. A Park of Many Caves

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is not composed of a single cave but of many caves. At this time, there are over 120 caves that have been discovered in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This number continues to grow as research and exploration continues. 

3. The Cave’s First Explorer

Settlers didn’t know about the cave until 1868 when a 16-year-old cowboy named Jim White saw a huge mass of bats rise from the desert hills. He assumed they came from a cave and went to see where the bats were coming from. He lowered himself into the cave on a homemade ladder and began exploring the underground cavern. When he shared his newfound knowledge of the cave with the locals, they didn’t believe him. 

4. First Tours

Eventually, curious visitors wanted to see this mysterious cave. Jim White began the first tours in Carlsbad Caverns. He lowered guests into the cave in a large guano bucket. Today, the park has an elevator available to lower visitors 750 feet into the cavern in the exact spot. 

5. The Big Room

The Big Room was named by Jim White and is a massive limestone chamber that features mesmerizing stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations. The Big Room is large enough that 6 football fields could be held in it. The Big Room Tour is one of the most popular tours offered at the park. 

6. National Register of Historic Places

Carlsbad Caverns National Park has 2 districts that are featured on the National Register of Historic Places. This prestigious honor means that the National Park Service will work to preserve the historic district that is located on its property. The 2 districts in Carlsbad Caverns National Park that are on the National Register of Historic Places are the Cavern Historic District and the Rattlesnake Springs Historic District . The park museum contains around a million cultural artifacts that are being protected and preserved.

7. Original People of the Park

American Indians lived in the Guadalupe Mountains 12 to 14 thousand years ago. The tribes that once lived in the park boundaries are believed to have been the Zuni Pueblo and the Mescalero Apache . Researchers believe these tribes made their home in the park because they have found several artifacts from them within the park boundaries.

Some of these artifacts include pictographs, cooking pits, and cave paintings. These artifacts are on display at the park for guests who want to learn more about the original people of the park.

8. Largest Caves in Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns is composed of many caves. The largest cave in the park is Lechuguilla Cave . This cave is over 140 miles long and is only accessible today by researchers and explorers. Carlsbad Cavern is a little over 30 miles and is a developed cave open to public tours. This cave is the largest accessible cave chamber in North America .

The other large caves in Carlsbad Caverns National Park include Spider Cave and Slaughter Canyon Cave. Spider Cave is undeveloped and is a little over 3.5 miles long. Slaughter Canyon Cave is 2.3 miles long and is minimally developed. Both of these caves are open for guided adventure tours. 

9. An Abundance of Animals

Many animals live in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The most well-known animal is the bat, but there are several other types of creatures that can be spotted in this national park. There are 67 species of mammals, 17 species of bats, 54 types of amphibians and reptiles, and nearly 400 types of birds that call this park home.

Some of the animals that can be seen in this park include weasels, skunks, otters, shrews, wolves, coyotes, and cave swallows. This is a great park for wildlife viewing as there is such a variety of wildlife that can be spotted in the park.

10. World Heritage Site

In December 1995, Carlsbad Caverns National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

11. Famous Visitors

Many famous people have visited Carlsbad Caverns National Park, including the Obama family and Amelia Earhart. 

12. Record-winning Cave

Carlsbad Caverns National Park holds one of the deepest limestone caves in the U.S. Lechuguilla Cave is the second deepest cave in America , measuring 1,604 feet deep. This cave is also the eighth-longest cave in the world and measures over 140 miles long. 

13. Mesmerizing Formations

Carlsbad Caverns National Park has countless unique formations that will catch your eye and make you wonder. Some of these phenomenal formations include lemon yellow sulfur deposits, hydro magnesite balloons, cave pearls, and 15-foot soda straws. 

14. A Park That’s Gone Batty

Carlsbad Caverns National Park has 17 different species of bats that call the park home. Some of the most significant bat species in the park include the Brazilian free-tailed bat, the cave myotis, the fringed myotis, hoary bats, and eastern red bats. These bats can be seen roosting in different parts of the caverns and flying in and out of the natural entrance. Other areas where these animals can be spotted include trees, rock cliffs, and cracks around the park.

One major concern for the bats in Carlsbad Caverns National Park is white-nose syndrome . This is a deadly fungus that is killing bats around the U.S. Over 7 million bats in America have died due to white-nose Syndrome, so Carlsbad Caverns National Park is making efforts to stop this spread. Be prepared to take precautions upon entering the caverns in order to protect this animal species. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a land of magic and mystery just waiting to be explored. From mesmerizing caverns to dozens of acres of wilderness to explore and from incredible sights in the night sky to bat flight experiences, there’s no shortage of adventure at this national park. Book your trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and discover what brings so many visitors from around the world to this remarkable park. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do the entry fees cost at carlsbad caverns national park.

An entry fee is collected for each individual that enters the park. For visitors ages 16 and older, a fee of $15 is collected. Children age 15 and under can enter the park at no cost.

How many days should I plan to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

It is recommended that visitors spend 4 to 6 hours visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This will allow plenty of time to explore the caverns and the landscape.

What is the weather like at Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

The weather varies throughout the year at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The coldest month is January when the low temperatures dip down to the low 30s, and the warmest months are June and July when the high temperatures reach nearly 90 degrees.

Is there Wi-Fi available at Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

Public Wi-Fi is not available at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Cellular service is limited and unreliable.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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What to Expect on the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

Last Updated on March 10, 2024 by Bonnie

Tucked away in the southeast corner of New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to the largest, easily accessible cave chamber in North America. It is also one of the few caves within the National Park Service that you can tour on your own. No need to stress, though, the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour is easy to follow and very informative.

We have now done tours in many different caves, including Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, Timpanogos Cave in Utah and Wind Cave in South Dakota. It’s interesting to us just how different various caves can be. For instance, Mammoth Cave is, generally, not nearly as “decorative” as many other caves. Additionally, the unusual cave formation known as boxwork is only rarely found outside Wind Cave. 

Carlsbad Caverns is known for both its large chambers, like the aptly named “Big Room,” and its decorative mineral features. It is also home to a large colony of Brazilian Free-tail bats, which are a highlight of a summer visit to the park. 

Still, the park is great any time of year! So, let’s take a look at just what you can expect on a self-guided tour of Carlsbad Caverns and around the rest of the park.

(Disclaimer: When we link to places where you can buy our stuff or places we stayed, we are using special codes that earn us commissions on the sales at no additional cost to you. Please see our  Review Policy   for more information.)

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Basic Information

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located just south of Carlsbad, NM in the Chihuahuan Desert of the Guadalupe Mountains. It is a fairly remote park, aside from the town of Carlsbad, which is about 20 miles north. Just outside the park entrance, the tiny enclave of White’s City offers an inn, RV park, gas station and restaurant. It’s not more than two corners of a single intersection, though.

The highlight of the national park is certainly the main cave (Carlsbad Cavern), along with the bat program in the summer. But, the park is home to at least 120 caves. Unfortunately, most of these are off-limits to the public.

Additionally, there are a few above-ground hiking trails and a scenic drive. The park also offers a few night-sky programs in the summer. At the visitor center, you will find a few exhibits, along with a small NPS bookstore and a large concessionaire gift shop and cafe. There is even a small snack bar down in the cave, though it has limited days/hours of operation.

Visitors can access Carlsbad Cavern via a 1.25-mile steep hike down the Natural Entrance or a relatively quick zoom down the elevator. Keep reading for more information on these options.

Be sure to check the Carlsbad Caverns National Park website for current hours of operation. The park enforces strict times for entering and exiting the cave on a self-guided tour. Finally, it is worth noting that the entire park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days.

Carlsbad Caverns Tours

Currently, Carlsbad Cavern can be seen on two different tours: the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour and the ranger-led King’s Palace Tour. Reservations for both must be made ahead of time on the recreation.gov website or app. Pre-COVID-19, the park offered a few other tours of the main cave and other caves. Unfortunately, as of March 2024, these have not resumed.

King’s Palace tours last 1.5 hours and are currently limited to 12 people. As you might guess, these reservations are extremely difficult to secure. Tickets are released 30 days prior at 8 a.m. Mountain Time and typically sell out very quickly. If you are interested in this tour, I suggest trying to secure tickets immediately when they are released.

Thankfully, tickets for the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour are relatively easy to get, especially during non-peak times. Still, you need to secure tickets before arriving at the park. Tickets are available up to 30 days in advance and until 5 a.m. MT the day of the tour, provided space is available. Your ticket allows you to enter the cave within a one-hour window. Once inside the cave, you can stay until the posted exit time.

Note: You must pay the park entrance fee upon arrival to Carlsbad Caverns National Park ($15 per person ages 16 or older, valid for three days) in addition to the ticket fees that are collected with your reservation. National Park pass holders must purchase a tour ticket, as only the park entrance fee is covered by your pass.

Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

Our visit to Carlsbad Caverns National Park was part of a longer road trip in the winter. Since we know that winter weather can always detail a road trip, we opted to keep our itinerary flexible and not make reservations too far in advance. That meant the King’s Palace Tour was not an option for us. 

Honestly, though, for our first visit to Carlsbad Caverns, we were happy to do the Self-Guided Tour. And, now that we’ve done it, I would certainly recommend it to any first-time visitor. It is possible to do both the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour and the King’s Palace Tour on the same day. This would not be a bad option if you have the time.

The Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour allows you to explore the Big Room along a 1.25-mile paved route. This trail is well-lit and relatively level. Much of the trail is even wheelchair accessible. That said, the park recommends that visitors in wheelchairs should only enter the Big Room with assistance. 

Before entering the cave, consider renting a handheld audio guide at the NPS bookstore. While there are a few exhibit signs along the underground trail, the audio tour provides in-depth descriptions of the cave features, history and geology. If you haven’t been in a lot of caves or have a particular interest in the geology or history of Carlsbad Cavern, I would encourage you to rent the audio guide. It’s a nominal rental fee ($5 when we visited) and was very informative and easy to use.

Natural Entrance vs. Elevator for the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

When you are ready for your Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour, you’ll need to be prepared to tell the ranger if you are planning to enter the cave via the elevator or the natural entrance. Since the natural entrance takes you through 1.25 miles of the cave that you would not see otherwise, we HIGHLY SUGGEST taking this route. That said, it is steep and moderately strenuous, descending more than 750 feet underground. 

Hiking down (or up) the natural entrance also doubles the length of your cave tour, as it is separate from the Big Room. If you have mobility issues, limited stamina or even limited time, then you might want to skip the natural entrance and just take the elevator up and down.

Otherwise, we suggest that you enter the cave via the natural entrance and exit via the elevator. While I suppose it is technically possible to exit via the natural entrance, it would be quite strenuous. And, while we enjoyed the cave along that route, I don’t think you would gain anything by hiking it both down and up. 

The park’s brochure shows the path of the Natural Entrance and Big Room routes. Be sure to look at that and talk to a ranger if you aren’t sure which way to enter or exit the cave. 

The Natural Entrance Route on the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

If you can make the trek down the natural entrance, you’ll enter the cave by the amphitheater that is used in the summer for the nightly Bat Flight Program. From there, you’ll descend about 200 feet along a series of switchbacks until you reach the entrance to the Bat Cave. 

As you might guess from the name, this is where the bats roost inside the cave. Even if visiting in the summer, when the bats are present, you will not be able to see them from the trail.

From there, the trail flattens out a bit as it continues to descend through the Main Corridor. Still, there are a few steep areas and another set of switchbacks near the area known as Devil’s Den. As you make your way through the cave, you’ll see a variety of features including stalactites, stalagmites and columns. You’ll even pass by a few pools of water.

It took us just under 1.5 hours to make our way down the Natural Entrance Trail to the elevators on the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour. That included quite a bit of stopping or slowing down to take pictures and listen to the audio guide.

Rest Area and Lunchroom

The Natural Entrance Trail meets up with the Big Room Trail right by the elevators, bathrooms and snack bar. At this point, you’re 755 feet below the surface. 

This is a great opportunity to take a potty break, eat a snack and maybe even take a few minutes to rest your legs. While you’re done with the most strenuous part, you’re still only about halfway through your Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour at this point.

It is also worth noting that this is the only area where you are permitted to eat or drink anything other than water. Even the smallest crumbs can make a big impact on the cave’s ecosystem, so all visitors must follow this policy.

Exploring the Big Room on the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

The 8.2-acre Big Room is the largest single cave chamber in North America. It truly is a must-see for anyone visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It is easily accessible via the elevator and much of the route around its perimeter is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for just about anyone to see.

A 1.25-mile paved trail takes you around the perimeter of the Big Room. A shortcut about halfway through the loop will cut the trail in about half. 

The highly decorated Big Room really is impressive, both in its size and the cave features. You’ll see a large group of stalactites known as the Chandelier and Crystal Spring Dome, an active formation that grows as it flows down a stalagmite into a cave pool. You’ll also be wowed by a variety of both large and small features from Doll’s Theatre where you’ll find extremely fragile soda straw formations to the towering domes at the Hall of Giants. 

In a few places, you’ll even see tools left behind by some of the early cave explorers. In particular, be on the lookout for a very rickety ladder on a cave wall and ropes tied to the cave ceiling. While being inside caves doesn’t really bother me too much, these tools remind me that is true only for well-developed caves!

Even after all the caves we’ve toured, every turn of the trail through the Big Room revealed a new cave feature that left us in awe. Seriously, Carlsbad Cavern is one impressive cave every step of the way. 

We spent about 1 hour and 15 minutes touring the Big Room. Again, that included several stops for pictures and audio guide information.

What to Wear Inside Carlsbad Caverns

As with most caves, the temperature inside Carlsbad Caverns stays a constant 56 degrees. Thus, we recommend wearing pants and long sleeves. You’ll also want to make sure you have shoes that will be comfortable for a 1.25-2.5 mile walk, likely sneakers or hiking shoes. There are a few areas that might be slippery, so I’d go with closed-toes shoes.

If you plan to hike down the natural entrance, you’ll definitely want shoes with good traction (we both wore hiking shoes). If you are taking the elevator and just exploring the Big Room, the path is more level, so regular sneakers are fine.

Read our tips for visiting a National Park Service cave here.

How to Avoid Spreading White-Nose Syndrome

It is also best to not wear clothes that have been inside another cave to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White-nose syndrome, which affects hibernating bats. You may even have to wipe down your shoes, phone or camera gear before entering the cave or when exiting. 

White-nose syndrome (WNS) gets its name from the white fuzzy fungus that can grow on a bat’s nose. Unfortunately, it can cause bats to be more active than usual during hibernation and burn up the fat that they need to survive the winter. Biologists first found sick and dying bats in 2007. Since then, WNS has killed millions of bats in North America and is considered one of the worst wildlife diseases in modern history.

People can unknowingly spread the fungus that causes WNS, as the spores can live on your clothing and other items even after washing. Thus, you will find that most cave operators (like the National Park Service) request that visitors not wear or carry anything into a cave that has been in another cave.

Pro Tip: Take a picture of each of the people in your group before heading into the cave, making sure all of their gear is in the picture. That way, you will have a record of what you wore and can avoid taking it into another cave.

Interestingly, the ranger we talked to at Carlsbad Caverns National Park said they aren’t too worried about WNS since their bats are migratory rather than hibernating. Still, since there is much that is not known about the spread of WNS, it’s best to wear new clothing that has not been in another cave if at all possible.

Other Things to Do at Carlsbad Caverns

While the cave tours are certainly the highlight of any visit to Carlsbad Caverns, there are a few things to do above ground. 

Bat Flight Program 

Aside from cave tours, one of the most popular things to do at Carlsbad Caverns is the nightly Bat Flight Program, which is held from Memorial Day weekend through October. Each night, thousands of bats rush from the cave’s natural entrance to feed. At the Bat Flight Program, park rangers present a talk about bats before they emerge.

Check times for the Bat Flight Program on the park’s website or at the visitor center. The program is generally held about 30 minutes before sunset. 

Unfortunately, the bats spend their winters in Mexico, so we were not able to see this spectacular event during our January visit. But, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Carlsbad Caverns, so we definitely plan to return sometime in the future when we can see the bats!

It’s also worth noting that the bats typically return to the park in mid to late April. You can watch the bat flight on your own at the amphitheater even if the ranger program hasn’t started yet for the summer. Also, if you are visiting in the fall, it’s worth noting that there is no way to know exactly when the bats will leave and move south. 

Overall, if you think this will be your only visit to Carlsbad Caverns, I’d suggest going when you can be reasonably certain the bats will be there. If you know you will likely have the opportunity to return, though, you can still enjoy a visit to this park even if you miss that special sight.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Drive 

If you are waiting around after your cave tour and before the Bat Flight Program, there are several above-ground hiking trails at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Sadly, flooding in 2022 caused trail erosion and damage to the scenic Walnut Canyon Desert Drive. Currently, most backcountry hiking trails and the scenic drive remain closed. For more information and estimates on reopening, check out the National Park Service website on the flood damage .

As you make your way in or out of the park, we suggest the short, Walnut Canyon Overlook Trail. The trailhead for this 5-minute walk is located right along the main park road as you make your way to the visitor center and cave entrance. It’s worth a quick stop to look out over the vast Chihuahuan Desert!

There also is a 1/2-mile Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail right by the visitor center. Along this mostly paved trail, you’ll find information on the flora of the surrounding desert. 

We certainly hope that the backcountry trails and the scenic drive are open when we return to Carlsbad Caverns!

Where to Stay and Eat When Visiting Carlsbad Caverns

There is no lodging or even a developed campground within the park. Right by the park entrance, you’ll find a small inn and RV park at White’s City. If you want to camp, that isn’t a bad option but it really isn’t a town. 

If you’re looking for a hotel and easy access to restaurants, shopping or other conveniences, I’d suggest staying in Carlsbad. Since we didn’t have the camper with us on this trip, we spent 3 nights at the Home2Suites in Carlsbad , which we used as our base for visiting both Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which is located just across the state line in Texas.

Read more about exploring Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Grant’s article.

The Home2Suites was perfectly comfortable and we enjoyed having the small kitchenette with a refrigerator. It is also located on the south side of town, making it very convenient for getting to the parks.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Book the Hotel

Another perk of the Home2Suites is that you can walk to Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company , which is just on the other side of the parking lot. We did this for dinner one night and were not disappointed at all! The beer is quite tasty and they serve a nice variety of pizzas, subs, paninis and a few salads and appetizers. 

If you’re looking for something other than a brewery, we suggest YellowBrix , which is located in the center of town. I thoroughly enjoyed the BRIX Meatloaf, which included a hefty serving of meatloaf along with two sides. Grant opted for the BRIX Mexican Burger, which was a traditional burger but wrapped in a tortilla. They also have a nice beer and wine menu, offering a little something for everyone.

Final Thoughts on the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour

After you’ve visited as many caves as we have, it’s easy to think that you’re going to “just another cave.” While we were excited to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park, we wondered if it would live up to the hype for us. 

I am pleased to say that it did! Even after countless other cave tours, it is easy to see why people like Carlsbad Caverns. And, that was without getting to see the bats or any of the backcountry hiking trails. This was easily one of our favorite caves!

While we always love a good ranger-led tour, doing the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tour was nice. It allowed us to explore the cave at our own pace, spending as much or as little time at a given formation as we wanted. Honestly, the fast pace of our tour at Mammoth Cave was one of our biggest complaints. It was refreshing to not have to worry about that this time.

We took our time, took the pictures we wanted and rested when we wanted! Seeing both the Natural Entrance and the Big Room was special, even if it did make for a somewhat lengthy walk. All told, we spent a little over 2.5 hours hiking in and around Carlsbad Caverns and we loved every bit of it!

Touring on our own was easy. The route was well-marked. And, there were enough informational signs to know what we were looking at. Having the audio guide provided even more history and information. We certainly did not feel that we missed out on anything by not having a ranger-guided tour. Mostly, we just loved touring on our own and not worrying about a large group.

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We use Vrbo for the times when we have rented a cabin for a weekend getaway, like this cabin in Townsend, TN , or needed to rent a house for a large family vacation. We had a great experience with them in terms of refunding deposits when COVID hit and will continue to use them. Click here to search for a vacation rental.

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How about booking a cruise?

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What if I want to rent an RV?

We highly recommend Outdoorsy for RV rentals. We rented a camper van for a week to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for the elk rut and Custer State Park for the Buffalo Round-Up and had a blast. The program was easy to use and we really enjoyed the freedom of having a camper van for that trip. Click here to rent an RV.

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We don’t often book tours. Typically, we like to do stuff on our own. That said, there are some experiences you can’t have any other way. So, when we do want to book a tour, we always check Viator first. Click here to book a tour.

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Best Things to Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park – A 1-Day Itinerary

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an incredible natural wonder in New Mexico. From the stunning highly decorated Big Room to the magical bat flight at night – there are so many things to do and see inside the caverns and above the surface.

The best part is you can enjoy the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park all in one day! My one day in Carlsbad Caverns itinerary has everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip. It includes the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where to stay, where to eat, what to pack, and more.

Table of Contents

Things to Know About Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Here are a few things to know about Carlsbad Caverns National Park to help prepare and plan your trip. It includes where to sleep, where to eat, general information about the caverns, and more.

Make a Reservation!

At this time, Carlsbad Caverns National Park requires visitors to make reservations to enter the caverns. You cannot make reservations at the park, only ahead of time at this website or by calling 877-444-6777.

The reservations are only for selecting an entry time to go inside the caverns. Tickets to enter Carlsbad Caverns National Park must still be purchased upon arrival, or you can use the U.S. National Park Pass.

Combine Carlsbad Caverns with Three Other National Parks

One day in Carlsbad Caverns is the perfect side destination on an epic West Texas and New Mexico National Park road trip. West Texas and New Mexico are full of desert and mountain adventures, so the cool underground caverns are a refreshing place to explore.

On our two-week road trip, we went to (in order) White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and Big Bend National Park.

If time is limited, you can easily visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in one weekend. The parks share the Guadalupe Mountains range and are only a 45-minute drive apart.

Read Next: Ultimate Itinerary for 3 Days in Big Bend National Park

Cavern Temperature

Whether it is blazing hot outside or freezing cold, the caverns stay at 56ºF (13ºC) year-round. Therefore, you should come prepared with proper attire and equipment. To learn what you should pack for Carlsbad Caverns, keep reading this guide or click here .

Plan Your Day Accordingly

If you only have one day in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you must plan your day well because it is not a 24-hour operating park.

The self-guided cavern is open from 8:30 am, with the last entry time of 2:30 pm. So you will need to plan your hike or take the elevator according to the operating hours of the caverns. Additionally, if you plan on going on a ranger-guided and self-guided tour in one day, you definitely need to plan your time appropriately.

Hopefully, my 1-day itinerary at the end of this guide can help you time and plan well. It includes an example of the perfect day at Carlsbad Caverns with a self-guided and ranger-guided tour.

Bringing a Baby or Toddler

If you are bringing your baby or toddler to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, here are a few things to know. A stroller is not allowed inside the cavern. Therefore, you will need a baby carrier or backpack to hold them.

Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the caverns. However, you can bring unflavored water, and there is an underground snack bar. You can feed your baby formula or breast milk in this designated eating area.

We brought our 11-month-old son to Carlsbad Caverns and had a fantastic time as a family. I hope you do too!

Where to Stay

There are no overnight lodging or campgrounds at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Primitive camping is only allowed in the backcountry, requiring a free permit issued upon arrival at the visitor center.

The closest lodging to Carlsbad Caverns National Park is Whites City Caverns Inn.  Whites City Caverns Inn  offers an RV park, campground, and hotel rooms with amenities and a restaurant on-site.

There are several lodging options in Carlsbad, about 30 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Carlsbad has accommodations for every budget and almost every brand imaginable such as Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Wyndham, and more. 

Since we travel with kids and are loyal Hilton members, we stayed at  Home2 Suites By Hilton Carlsbad New Mexico . The hotel met our expectations and was the perfect location for our trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. 

Where to Eat

There are two places to eat at Carlsbad Caverns National Park – the restaurant inside the visitor center and the underground snack bar inside the cavern.

Please note that only unflavored water is permitted inside the caverns. Visitors are not allowed to bring outside food and drinks. If visitors have diabetes or other medical conditions, they are allowed to eat or drink on a limited basis.

The food purchased at the underground snack bar must be consumed in the designated eating area. Furthermore, the underground snack bar is only open from Friday to Sunday.

The restaurant inside the visitor center has limited food options, such as salad, sandwiches, hot dogs, and nachos. There are also bottled drinks, fountain drinks, and hot drinks.

Of course, you can always bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the patio or a picnic table outside the visitor center.

Best Things to Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

In my opinion, the caverns are mind-blowing and where I recommend, you spend most of your time. Especially if you only have one day in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

With that said, there are plenty of things to do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park – both inside the caverns and above the surface that you cannot miss.

If time permits, here are the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park for one day.

Hike the Natural Entrance Trail

There are two ways to enter and exit Carlsbad Cavern – by elevator or on foot. If you are looking for a fantastic experience, hiking the Natural Entrance Trail is one of the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. I should elaborate that I recommend hiking the Natural Entrance Trail into the cavern and taking the elevator to exit the cavern.

This trail is not recommended for visitors with heart or respiratory conditions.

The Natural Entrance Trail is a steep 1.25-mile descent that leads into the Big Room. The trail is so steep that you gain or lose 750 feet, equivalent to walking up or down a 79-story building. 

You might think that the trail is moderately easy because you are descending. However, that is not the case. The Natural Entrance Trail is a strenuous hike because the descent is brutal on the knees and ankles, and the incline is challenging. Overall, it can take around 1 hour to complete.

The beginning of the hike alone is quite impressive. Sharp switchbacks lead into the pit known as the Devil’s Den, the entrance into the cavern. Once you get below the surface and into the cavern, the experience only gets better.

Explore the Big Room

Walking the Big Room Trail to explore the cavern is, hands down, the best thing to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It is essentially the main attraction.

The Big Room is the largest single cave limestone chamber by volume in North America. Needless to say, it is mind-blowing. The Big Room is an underground city of beautiful rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Again, you can hike the Natural Entrance Trail or take the elevator down to the Big Room. Once you arrive, you can explore the Big Room by walking the 1.25-mile trail. The trail is primarily flat and takes about 1.5 hours to complete or longer if you plan to make multiple stops for pictures.

It is also considered a self-guided tour. So visitors can enjoy the Big Room at their own pace. Along the trail are informative signs of special cavern features such as the Bottomless Pit, Lion’s Tail, and Silent Bell. You can also rent a handheld audio guide (from the bookstore) for more in-depth descriptions of the Big Room’s formations, geology, and history.

Go on a Ranger Guided Tour

Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers five excellent ranger-guided tours for an additional price. Each tour gives visitors a unique experience to explore more of the caverns. Some are more adventurous with rock scrambling, free climbing, and crawling through tight passageways. 

Currently, the King’s Palace is the only operating tour. It is also the most popular ranger-guided tour. To go on the tour, visitors need to make additional reservations. An adult must accompany anyone under 16; children under four years old are not permitted on the King’s Palace Tour.

The King’s Palace Tour is a 1-mile walk through four highly decorated chambers and into the deepest portion of the cavern. It also includes one of the best cavern experiences, total darkness. Rangers will conduct blackouts by turning off all artificial lights to reveal the natural darkness of the cave. 

You can learn more and book the Kings Palace 1.5-hour long tour  here . Additionally, you can find more information on the other ranger-guided tours  here .

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail

If you have a green thumb, you cannot miss hiking the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail. The easy paved trail is only .5 mile long and takes 30 minutes to complete.

Along the pathway are multiple markers on the flora of the Chihuahuan Desert. A few beautiful plants include prickly pear cactus, sotol, ocotillo, and yucca faxoniana.

The trail will close just before and during the Bat Flight program. So if you are waiting for the Bat Flight program to begin, hiking the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail is (literally) a beautiful way to kill time.

Read Next: Best Hikes in Big Bend National Park That You Cannot Miss!

Watch the Bat Flight

You cannot miss the bat flight program if you plan your trip to Carlsbad Caverns from Memorial Day weekend through October. The bat flight program is one of the best things to do at Carlsbad Caverns. It is also my favorite experience at the park.

About 200,000 – 500,000 Brazilian free-tailed bats call Carlsbad Caverns National Park home, and guests can watch them fly out of the cave and into the sky to search for food. Every night from Memorial Day weekend through October, a ranger will lead this FREE program to educate visitors on the bats before their flight.

This event does not require reservations; it is first-come, first-served. Therefore, I recommend arriving at the amphitheater at least 30 minutes before the program begins. Make sure you check with the visitor center on what time the event starts.

If you have seen  Batman Begins , the experience feels like the movie – when Bruce stands in the cave while the bats circle around him. Hundreds of thousands of bats circle the Natural Entrance like a tornado. Then they gradually break out of the formation and into the night. Everyone is dead quiet, and all you hear are wings flapping. It’s beautiful.

Participate in a Night Sky Program

In addition to the bat flight, the Night Sky Program is another beautiful evening event at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. There are two different night sky programs – star viewing and night hikes. 

The star viewing  – a park ranger leads this program and educates visitors about astronomy. Some sky viewing dates include seeing a meteor shower and a super moon. 

No telescopes are involved in the program, but the park ranger will use a laser pointer to help show the astronomical features of the night. If you want to see the stars better, it is encouraged to bring your binoculars.

The night hike  – a park ranger leads this program and takes guests on a 1.5-mile hike through the desert. This is a unique experience and an excellent opportunity to explore Carlsbad Caverns National park at night. 

Both programs are free and take place on specific dates of the year. There is no registration for the sky viewing, but the night hike has a first-come, first-serve basis sign up at the visitor center. You can learn more about each program and the specific dates  here .

Other Things to Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Most of the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National are within the caverns. However, if you have more than one day in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, here are two more things to do above the surface.

Drive the Scenic Walnut Canyon Desert Drive

The Scenic Walnut Canyon Desert Drive is a one-way 9-mile gravel road through the mountains of Carlsbad Caverns. It takes about one hour to complete the scenic drive. You can spot wildlife such as rattlesnakes and bighorn sheep along the way.

The road is not recommended for low clearance vehicles and is closed to RVs, buses, and trailers.

Find the Rattlesnakes Spring Oasis

Above the surface of Carlsbad Caverns is Rattlesnakes Springs – a little hidden oasis in the middle of the Chihuahuan Desert. Rattlesnakes Springs has a crystal clear natural spring with towering cottonwood trees surrounding it. This area is perfect for a shaded picnic and to go bird watching.

What to Pack for Carlsbad Caverns

I recommend packing a light jacket and closed-toe shoes with good traction because the caverns are 56ºF, and the pathways are slippery.

More importantly, the clothes and shoes you pack for Carlsbad Caverns cannot have been in another cave in the past ten years per the National Park Service (NPS). This also applies to any camera equipment.

If you have clothing, shoes, and equipment that do not meet the requirements, do not fret. You can wipe everything with disinfectant. These precautions help protect the health of the Brazilian free-tailed bats from White-nose Syndrome, a deadly fungus to the bats.

1-Day in Carlsbad Caverns Itinerary

Now that you have all the information needed to plan the perfect day in Carlsbad Caverns, here is an itinerary you may use at your leisure.

If you plan to attend a ranger-guided tour such as the King’s Palace, you will need to plan your one day at Carlsbad Caverns National Park around the tour. With that thought in mind, this itinerary will include a proposed tour time. You can adjust the itinerary as needed for your tour time.

10:00 am – King’s Palace Tour (1.5 hour tour) 12:00 pm – Lunch 1:30 pm – Hike the Natural Entrance Trail (1 hour) or take the elevator down 2:30 pm – Explore the Big Room (1.5 hours) 4:00 pm – Hike the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail (30 minutes) 4:30 – 6:30 pm – Dinner 7:00 pm – Watch the bat flight program 9:00 pm – Enjoy a night sky program

I hope you have found my guide on the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park with a 1-day itinerary helpful. Enjoy your time at Carlsbad Caverns. It is truly an incredible natural wonder.

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The Happiness Function

Carlsbad caverns: plan a day touring the cave and hiking.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to unique and awe-inspiring geological formations, including one of the largest underground cave systems in North America. You can explore these caverns on your own or take a guided tour, which will give you an even more in-depth understanding of the history and geology of the area. There are other activities available at the park, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Did you know Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? The park is home to one of the most well-preserved and accessible Karst systems in the world , which is part of the reason it is listed as a World Heritage site. Karst systems have multiple caves, sinkholes, and springs.

Lechuguilla is the largest cave here and the fourth largest cave in the USA . To date, over 145 miles have been mapped out.

Carlsbad Karst System Geology

The caves themselves were formed over millions of years – but not because of the typical erosive action of water on limestone bedrock. The Carlsbad karst system was formed by hydrogen sulfide-rich water mixing with rainwater, which then formed sulfuric acid. The acid actually dissolved the Capitan limestone.

Today, the karst system provides scientists with an invaluable record of the Earth’s history, and visitors can enjoy its beauty. The caverns are home to a wide variety of mineral formations and speleothems (cave formations), including stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, popcorn, and draperies. The caves also provide a habitat for several specialized cave creatures, such as bats.

Check out more New Mexico articles: Best Adventure Day Trips From Santa Fe How To Spend the Perfect Day at Bandelier National Monument

Carlsbad Caverns Itinerary

The itinerary below can help give you an idea of planning a nice day at the park.

• Reserve a cave tour time slot ahead of time at recreation.gov .
• Arrive at the park visitor center before 8 am.
• Purchase cave tour tickets (or use an America the Beautiful pass) for reserved tour time.
• If it’s summer, hike the surface trails early in the day to beat the summer heat. The rest of the year, you can hike any time of day.
• Do a self-guided cave tour mid-morning or early afternoon.
• If it’s summer, watch the bat flight program at dusk. The program is seasonal. More on the bats below.
• Stay after dark for the night sky program.
• Head back to Carlsbad to sleep and eat – or head to Guadalupe National Park to camp and explore.

Things To Do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The caves are a popular destination for spelunkers and cavers from all over the world. Along with touring the cave system, there are miles of surface hiking trails, a bat flight program, and a night sky program.

Explore the Caverns

Reservations.

Reservations are required to enter the cave and cannot be made at the park. The reservation system only reserves your time slot, and it does not include the entry ticket fee , which is purchased at the visitor center.

Be sure to make tour time slot reservations online at recreation.gov before your trip.

Fees & Passes

Driving into Carlsbad Caverns to park and walk around does not require a park entrance fee (like other national parks).

To do the self-guided cave tours, there are fees:

• Adults (16 and over): $15 per person
• Children (15 and under): FREE

The cave entrance fees are covered if you have the annual America the Beautiful National Park Pass.

For more questions on fees, visit the Carlsbad Caverns National Park website .

Self-Guided Tours

One of the best parts about exploring Carlsbad Caverns is that there are options for self-guided tours so visitors can explore at their own pace.

Why We Love Visiting: The self-guided tours stood out for us – we have been to other national park caves that only offered guided tours.

Natural Entrance Trail

The Natural Entrance Trail self-guided tour is awesome. The trail starts on the surface and leads you 750 feet down a path into the cave. Once you get into the cave, the path has lighting, so there is no need to bring a headlamp. It takes a while for the eyes to adjust, so take your time.

Be sure to read the signs along the route to see famous landmarks inside the cave, such as Devil’s Spring, Iceberg Rock, and the Whale’s Mouth.

If you hike from the surface down into the cave, you’ll take the elevator out at the end. The trail ends at the Big Room Trail. More on the Big Room Trail next – and you can walk both trails on the same day.

• Distance : 1.25 mile
• Tour timing: about 1 hour
• Things to consider : Wear hiking shoes; the descent is steep and not recommended for people who have trouble going downhill.
• Best way to hike: Hike from the surface down into the cave, so you’re walking downhill. If you go the opposite way, you’ll be hiking uphill from the elevator, which will be more strenuous.

Big Room Trail

The Big Room Trail is one of the most popular self-guided tours. It was called “The Grand Canyon with a roof over it” by actor Will Rogers.

• Distance : 1.25 miles, or you can take a shorter route and enjoy a 0.6-mile walk.
• Tour timing: About 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Things to consider : Wear hiking shoes. Some of the route is handicap accessible.
• Best way to view: Take the elevators down into the cave if you’re not hiking in from the surface and Natural Entrance Trail.

Bat Flight Program

Another great thing to do at Carlsbad Caverns is to watch the bats emerge from the cave in the summer at dusk.

Hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats fly out of the cave to search for food, and you can watch them fly out the mouth of the cave. There is seating at the amphitheater located near the Natural Entrance.

The bats migrate, so this is a seasonal event typically occurring from May to October . The best time to see the bats is in August and September after all the summer bat pups are born, and the colony is at its largest.

No reservations are required to watch. Electronic devices are not allowed to protect the bats. So, no pictures to share here.

Surface Hiking Trails Through the Desert

There are miles and miles of surface trails inside the park boundaries. Hiking is one of the best ways to see the Chihuahuan Desert and parts of the Guadalupe Mountains.

There are a handful of great trails that start near the visitor center . The trails that lead to and from the visitor center close temporarily for the bat flight program every evening. Spring is a great time to visit to see the cactus bloom.

If you’re hiking in the summer, be mindful of the harsh desert heat. It is best to walk early in the summer and not very far. There is no shade in this area.

Do you need help thinking about what type of hiking clothes to pack? Find out exactly what to wear hiking all year long .

Rattlesnake Springs

If you have time to burn, waiting for your tour to start, check out Rattlesnake Springs . It is a riparian oasis in the middle of the desert. The springs are located on the southwest side of the park. There is a homestead ranch with some of the original irrigation systems where you can see how they collected spring water. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can’t go swimming here .

You’ll have to drive away from the visitor center to visit this part of the park. Pack your lunch and have a picnic.

Night Sky Programs

The park also offers night sky programs. Once it gets dark, visitors can take a guided tour with a park ranger. Depending on the time of year, there are scheduled night sky walks to explore with a ranger.

The night sky programs are first-come, first-serve.

The night sky is unbelievable out here.

How To Get To Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Driving to the cave feels like you’re going to the middle of nowhere (literally). Carlsbad Caverns is actually 25-30 minutes southwest of the town of Carlsbad, New Mexico. Take US-180 W out of town to White’s City. Turn off the highway and follow a 7-mile drive to the visitor center.

Since it is a national park, the roads are well-marked.

Google Maps did get us there easily.

The visitor center address is: 727 Carlsbad Caverns Highway, Carlsbad, NM 88220.

Visitor Center – The visitor center is open from 8 am to 5 pm.

Cave Tickets – The last cavern entrance tickets are sold at 2:15 pm.

Cave Entrance – Is permitted from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, and you have to be out by 4:30 pm.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Although dogs are not allowed on the unpaved trails, inside the cave, inside the visitor center, or to watch the bats, there is a kennel service to leave your pet while you tour the cave.

It costs $15 per day (per pet). The service is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Check out the Carlsbad Caverns kennel service for more information if you’re traveling with your fur baby. We love how this creates a safe and inclusive experience for people and their pets while traveling.

Best Time of Year To Visit

The park is open year-round. So you can visit year-round.

We visited in February, and there were no crowds, and the weather was perfect for hiking.

Spring is the best time to see all the desert flowers.

Summers do get super-hot (dry heat), so consider the heat if planning to camp and hike.

Camping Near Carlsbad Caverns

If planning to camp here, keep in mind that Carlsbad Caverns National Park does not have a campground . No overnight RV parking is allowed in the parking lot, either.

There are some options for primitive camping on BLM Land nearby. You’ll want to do a little research ahead of time. Get more information from the Carlsbad BLM Field Office .

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is 30-45 minutes away across the Texas border, and there is some camping there as well.

Are you new to camping on BLM land? We’ve got you covered! Check out our article about camping on BLM land and learn more about backcountry camping etiquette.

Lodging Near Carlsbad Caverns

The hotels closest to Carlsbad Caverns will be in the town of Carlsbad. There is no lodging within the park.

There is a good selection of chain hotels to choose from in the town of Carlsbad.

If you like quaint and cozy boutique hotels, check out:

The Trinity Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel with a restaurant inside. The hotel is within a renovated building from the 1800s. They also have good food, and the hotel has a classy ambiance.

Fiddler’s Inn – A country chic boutique bed and breakfast with outstanding reviews. It has a cute courtyard, and breakfast is included.

Where To Eat

There are some decent local places to eat in Carlsbad, especially if you like TexMex. We love TexMex.

If you don’t like to eat in restaurants, there are a few large chain grocery stores like Walmart and Albertsons so you can buy groceries and prepare your own food, get ice for the cooler, and stock up on water. We actually mostly travel like this – so we are always on the lookout for the grocery store.

We talk more about how we afford to travel so much in this article – if you’d like to read more!

Other Things To Consider While Planning

Carlsbad, New Mexico, is an oilfield boom town which means there is a lot of truck traffic . Be mindful when driving the highways and back roads. Once you leave town, the area is remote and rural, and cell phone reception can be spotty.

Sometimes, it can be hard to find camping and places to stay because there is such a large influx of transient people working in the area, so consider potential crowds when planning accommodations.

Summers can be triple-digit hot – as in 100+ degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to plan for that kind of weather.

And, as we said earlier, the area is rural . So, find the nearest grocery store and get groceries if you want to have a picnic and bring snacks to hike and road trip with. Also, get fuel.

There is a Walmart in Carlsbad. That is where we stopped to get groceries.

Travel safe! Find out 5 things we never road trip without .

If you’re on a road trip to visit multiple national parks, the America the Beautiful pass pays for itself quickly. We highly recommend purchasing one.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park

We visited the park in February, and the weather was terrific. It was sunny and long-sleeve shirt weather. We hiked some of the trails around the visitor center and enjoyed the self-guided tour from the Natural Entrance into the Big Room. There were no crowds in February.

We thought the self-guided tour from the Natural Entrance was awesome . It should be on everyone’s national park bucket list. It was such a cool adventure to walk into the cave like that. Be sure to check out the Natural Entrance Trail if you visit.

We missed the bats because they had migrated south.

The night sky in the area is incredible. So if you’re into night photography, you’ll get some great images. You don’t have to do the program at the park to appreciate the night sky here.

Visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park pairs well with a trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas or Roswell, New Mexico.

The International UFO Museum and Research Center is fun to check out in Roswell. I love all things aliens and UFOs, so I thought a visit to the UFO Museum was a great detour. Roswell is an hour and 40 minutes away. Roswell is a quirky small town – it is fun to see all the little green alien signs everywhere.

Plan to spend at least a day at Carlsbad Caverns NP to explore.

Thanks for reading.

Ashlee & Pablo

Get More New Mexico Guides:

• Best Adventure Day Trips From Santa Fe
• How To Spend the Perfect Day at Bandelier National Monument

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Ashlee Fechino

16 comments.

I am now sorry that we missed visiting Carlsbad Caverns when we were in New Mexico. I think I would like to take a tour and learn more about these fascinating geological formations. I would pass on the bat flight program but staying for the night sky program sounds great.

Linda – You’ll have to visit Carlsbad Caverns the next time you are in New Mexico. It is a cool place to explore. We really love that you can tour the cave at your own pace.

Oh these are very impressive! it reminds me a cave that I visited few months ago in Georgia! thanks for this article I’m always happy to discover new places! well done!

Lasma – Thanks for sharing about your cave experience in Georgia. We totally agree – it is so fun to discover new places.

Carlsbad Caverns is such a cool place. I visited a good 25 years ago. I’m sure it has changed a lot but I do remember how beautiful were the cave formations. I would have loved to see the bats fly out. Hope to go back again someday.

Hi Ildiko! We loved reading your comment. I wonder how much has changed since then. We hope you can make it back someday. Thanks for reading.

The coolest thing Carlsbad Caverns National Park has to offer is self-guided cave tours! It’s really not usual and looks so interesting

Hi there – we totally agree with you! We thought the same. Thanks for stopping by our blog.

Great recommendations! I love exploring caves and the NPS always does a great job!

Hi Jennifer! We totally agree. Thanks for reading our blog. Have a great summer!

I would love to see the bats take flight or participate in a night walk. There is something so calm and peaceful about the night sky, especially when in an area with less pollution.

Hi Alaina – bat flights are so cool! We saw them in Austin, TX a few years ago and it was really neat to see. And we agree – we love being in places with no light pollution. Seeing the night sky is incredible.

I’d never heard of this place until now, how cool! The Big Room Trail looks amazing, and I can see what it’s popular. I have a fear of bats so would skip the night flight part lol

Hi Laura – Carlsbad Caverns is a must-see if you’re visiting New Mexico. It is really neat to see. You can totally skip the bats! Thanks for reading our blog. Happy travels!

Our parents took our family to Carlsbad Cave one time ago. It was great !!.

I’m glad you’guys got to see it.

Hi Uncle Burt – thanks for sharing. I wonder how much the area has changed since then. Thanks for stopping by!

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Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Everything You Need to Know

When you visit Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, USA, you’re in for quite a treat. There are so many beautiful sights, that one of many fitting titles is “The Treasures of the Chihuahuan Desert”. It’s essential to be aware that experiencing the unique cave system at Carlsbad Caverns National Park will lessen your sense of astonishment and wonder for all future cave adventures. Among the world’s greatest natural wonders, this ranks high.

Experience a world of stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, draperies, cave popcorn, and more on a hike through the depths of the earth. You’ll like how the interior terrain mimics a dry-land coral reef.

This detailed guide can find everything you need to know about Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Everything you need to know about the park’s reservation process (essential! ), guided tours, surrounding lodging, and day trips are here.

If (or when) you end up going, make sure you have plenty of time to soak it all in. There is no spot quite like this in on the planet, and you will want to make the most of it.

Directions to Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Cavern Highway is the only route that leads directly to the park. You’ll need to drive to the park’s entrance and then get around on foot. Wheelchair access is present, but somewhat restricted.

All trips begin at the ticket office, where you can make reservations and purchase tickets. Individual tickets cost $15 unless you have an Interagency Annual Parks Pass.

You must schedule a time slot to access the park online in advance, regardless of whether you plan to purchase your ticket in advance or are a pass holder.

Trails are paved and well-lit, and temperatures are comfortable year-round. You might wish to bring a light jacket if you tend to get chilly. Just as you would want to carry a headlamp if you have problems seeing, others may find that doing so is helpful.

The Best Time to Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Given that Carlsbad Caverns is mostly underground, you can plan to visit year-round. You’ll have an easier time getting a reservation and finding nearby lodging if you visit outside of the high season (the summer months, in particular).

A typical self-guided tour of the caverns takes guests only three to four hours to complete. While those interested in photography or geology might need a longer time, I think most tourists could see everything they wanted in five to six hours.

Plan your trip so that you can witness the nighttime bat flight if you happen to visit during the appropriate seasons.

It would help if you planned to spend at least one full day in Carlsbad Caverns and possibly another half day at either Living Desert State Park or Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area.

The Carlsbad Caverns Park Hours

Carlsbad Caverns has regular business hours, unlike many national parks that are accessible whenever they like. From 8 am to 5 pm, you can stop by the visitor center. Beginning at 8:30 am, you may start your walk inside the cave.

Tickets and Fees

Tickets for adults (those aged 16 and up) are $15 each.

Young ones (under 15) are admitted at no cost.

You can gain access for free if you have an America Beautiful Pass. However, if you want to go on a ranger-led program, you’ll have to shell out the extra cash.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Top Attractions

Although the caverns are the main attraction, Carlsbad Caverns offer several “above-ground” activities.

Exploring the Caverns

There are two ways you can explore the caves. You can take a ranger-led tour or proceed at your speed on the self-guided paths.

If time is of the essence, join a ranger-led tour. However, since you’re reading about it here, we know you probably want a more extensive trip. To “go deeper” into the caves, gain a greater understanding of the area’s history and geology, and increase your opportunity for exploration and adventure, we recommend going at your own pace.

The Bat Flight Program

This highlights a visit to Carlsbad Caverns, although it is only available during certain months. Bats at Carlsbad Caverns are only around for part of the year because they are migratory. Midway through late April, you’ll first see the bats, and they’ll stay until late October. Seeing a sea of bats fly overhead is quite a sight to behold.

Bat Flight airs on television from late May to the end of the season in October. Relax in the Bat Flight Amphitheater and watch as thousands of bats fly out of the cave through its natural opening.

There is no additional cost for this beyond what you pay to enter the park. Reservations are not required, but guests will be seated in the order they arrive. Depending on the conditions, this occurs just about every night. August and September are prime times for bat watching, because that’s when the young bats make their debut.

Dark Sky Program

Because of its isolation, Carlsbad Caverns is an excellent place to gaze up at the stars. A ranger-led evening walk is available on select dates between May and October. You can go on a Moon Walk or a Star Walk; if your timing is right, you may even see a meteor shower.

Hiking on One of the Surface Trails

There are several surface trails available for hikers. Despite my extensive preparation, we did not have time to go hiking during our stay. The Upper Rattlesnake Canyon to Guadalupe Ridge Loop stood out as the most intriguing route from my investigation. It is estimated that it would take four hours to complete the six miles of this hike.

The Walnut Canyon Desert Drive

This dirt road winds across the mountains of Carlsbad Caverns and is only accessible in one direction.

The scenic drive is about 9 miles long. However, one user shared that the drive is dull due to the monotony of the desert landscape. Thus, if you aren’t going to be hiking on one of the trails that begins on this loop, it may fall short of expectations.

Rattlesnake Springs

In the middle of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park desert, you’ll find an oasis known as Rattlesnake Springs.

Top Carlsbad Caverns Visitors Guides

Automated guided tours.

There are two excellent self-guided tours to choose from.

1) Natural Entrance Pathway

1.25-mile distance

Moderate in Difficulty

Time Required: Between 45 and 60 Minutes

The Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Caverns is a highlight for many visitors. A well-kept asphalt path leads down to the Carlsbad Caverns entrance.

As you venture further into the tunnel, your eyes will become accustomed to the reduced brightness. The cavern shows its many rock formations and dripstones in stages. The Big Room Trail is the final stop along this path.

2) Big Room Trail

Difficulty: Simple; largely wheelchair accessible

Regarding volume, The Big Room is the largest cave chamber in the USA. The colossal size of this chamber and the surrounding cave formations and views are truly stunning.

Carlsbad Caverns Guided Tours

At the moment, you can pick from one of five different ranger-led tours. There are short, leisurely strolls and lengthier “hikes” that require tunnel crawling and light rock scrambling. There is a fee for each of these excursions.

King’s Palace Tour

It will take 1.5 hours.

Distance: 1 mile

Group Size (max): 40

The ranger-led trip is extremely popular. This 1.5-hour trip takes visitors further into Carlsbad Caverns, where they may see some of the park’s most impressive cave formations.

You may have visited many caves all around the world. Still, nothing compares to the incredible variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations you will witness on this tour. If you want to see the best of Carlsbad Caverns without exerting too much effort, this tour is for you.

Left Tunnel Tour

Duration: 2 hours

Tour Size: 10

Explore Carlsbad Caverns the way the original tourists did with a candle-lit lantern. This small-group tour is a great option compared to the other excursions on this list, which tend to be larger.

Time required: 3 hours.

The price for a tour with a group of 12: is $20.

This expedition is for the more daring traveler. Wear your protective gear, and continue your exploration of Carlsbad Caverns. Stunning cave formations await you at the bottom of the 60-foot descent.

White Giant’s Hall

Duration: 4 hours

Tour Size: 8

Explore the area by crawling through small openings, descending ladders, negotiating slippery surfaces, and even free climbing. If you’re up for a bit of mud and muck, this tour could be right up your alley.

Slaughter Canyon Cave

It takes 5.5 hours to complete

The tour’s maximum number is 16.

Among these trips, this one has the longest duration. During this outing, you will traverse dark, underground tunnels to reach your destination. It’s okay because you’ll have access to flashlights and headlights to help you navigate. This is one of the ecstatic experiences in Carlsbad Caverns, but the terrain is rugged, with slick, uneven surfaces and low lighting.

Top Attractions Near Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Since you’ll probably need a day to explore the caverns, you might seek additional activities there. See below for some suggestions of places to see while in Carlsbad.

Sitting Bull Falls

About an hour away from Carlsbad lies a hidden gem that is highly regarded by the community. After traveling through what seems to be a barren desert, you’ll reach a hilly oasis where waterfalls are fed by spring water all through the year.

Living Desert State Park

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is a botanical garden showcasing plants and animals of the Chihuahuan Desert. You can learn quite a lot here, and admission is cheap.

Some visitors would spend the whole day here. Your decision will hinge on how much you want to learn about the desert beyond the animals that live there. We highly recommend it to those fascinated by nature (like we are!).

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

When you start your trip to Carlsbad Caverns via car, head 40 minutes to the west to Guadalupe Mountains National Park to cross off another national park on your list. There are several desert hikes around the spectacular mountain range, and drivers will also be treated to some beautiful sights.

What to Expect at Carlsbad Caverns National Park

A total of 265 million years have passed since the caves’ sceneries formed! If you think it appears like a reef above ground, you’d be right.

In contrast to its current desert state, the region was formerly home to a vibrant marine ecosystem some 250 million years ago when it was an inland sea. The reef was buried and later raised and eroded with the sea receding to form the Guadalupe Mountains.

The caves didn’t form until 4 and 6 million years ago, making them relatively young in geological terms. The astonishing diversity of geological cave formations you will find on your visit results from rain, ocean, pressure, gases, and time.

Speleothems

Speleothems are the aggregate name for the rock formations found in caves. The Greek roots spelaion (for “cave”) and thema (for “deposit”) give this term its literal meaning.

Water seeps into the cave system, absorbing carbon dioxide from the air and turning it into a weak carbonic acid as it travels through the ground. Because of its acidic nature, the water can dissolve part of the limestone it flows over on its journey to the ocean. Limestone in the water’s path carries calcite, which is deposited in the cave as speleothems.

There are many different kinds of speleothems to observe in Carlsbad Caverns, not just the stalactites and stalagmites that are the most well-known. Examples are columns, soda straws, drapes, helictites, and popcorn.

The cave formations you’ll view are up to 10,000 years old, but you can’t estimate their age by size since they grow at varying rates depending on environmental circumstances. Thus, the earliest formation is not necessarily the largest one.

The formation of a single speleothem can take thousands of years and is extremely sensitive, and they are prone to breaking and susceptible to being harmed by the oils on our skin. Consequently, please don’t touch the cave formations.

Stalactites

A little deposit is left behind as mineral-rich water drips from the roof. Stalactites are formed from these deposits over time, drip by drop. Most stalactites are icicle-shaped and end in a sharp point.

Stalagmites

Dripping water on the cave floor could also help minerals stuck there to stick around. This material will harden into stalagmites over time. Most stalagmites have rounded or flattened tips, as opposed to the sharp points of stalactites.

Soda Straws

The soda straws are the thinnest and most hollow cave formations known. An outer ring of calcite forms around each drop of water as it falls from the ceiling, making a “straw” whose inside diameter is the same as the water drops. When the hole in one of these hollow cylinders becomes closed, or water starts trickling down the outside of the tube, stalactites form.

Drapes are sheet-like structures, as the name implies. They form when water trickles down a sloping ceiling, leaving behind barely perceptible lines. Water will continue to flow along these paths because they are somewhat lower than the surrounding ceiling, eventually accumulating to form sheets.

Helictites are mysterious curved formations with a helix-like shape for which no clear explanation has been proposed. Their curving structures violate the laws of physics, and the Queen’s Chamber features some magnificent examples.

Popcorn-like formations, or “ cave popcorn ,” are coralloids , and they are seen on the walls and other structures. Precipitation or evaporation are two additional mechanisms that add complexity to their creation.

Hotels Near Carlsbad Caverns National Park

You cannot set up a permanent campsite (tent or RV) within Carlsbad National Park’s borders. Though free permits are available at the visitor center, there are several rules and regulations to follow if you want to camp in the park’s backcountry. For more details, please visit the NPS website.

White’s City Hotel

Located 7 miles from the park, White’s City is a quaint little community. You may discover a modest inn, an RV park, and a place to pitch a tent, all within walking distance. Because of the town’s compact size, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. There is also a gas station, convenience store, and cafe.

Carlsbad Hotel

Carlsbad lies around 25 miles (40 km) from the national park. Primarily due to the oil found in the area, Carlsbad has grown in population and prosperity. If you need anything, Carlsbad has a wide variety of businesses and eateries to satisfy your cravings.

Food Places in Carlsbad

Here are two excellent options for dining at a nice restaurant night.

The Trinity Hotel Restaurant

Excellent pasta dishes are available at this motel. If you’re lucky, you can get a seat at the upper level overlooking the resto and bar below.

Yellow Brix Restaurant

Seating is available both inside and outside at this eatery. They have pasta, sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

To Sum it Up…You MUST Go to Carlsbad Caverns National Park!

The experience at Carlsbad Caverns National Park consistently exceeds the expectations set by the photographs.  Walking among such an extraordinary collection of geologic miracles formed over millions of years is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Ideally, you’ve found this guide helpful as you organize your trip.

We’d love to hear from those of you who do make a trip to Carlsbad Caverns. What was your favorite part of the trip? Did you get to explore enough, and what would you have liked to change, if anything? And as always, please share photos of your favorite moments!

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Carlsbad Caverns Cave Tours

The National Park Service offers several tours within the caverns of various lengths and difficulties. Most are available only with a ranger as guide at specific times, but two very scenic routes are self-guided; these are described below.

Distances given below are total, roundtrip distances unless otherwise stated. Difficulties are only a general guideline, for an adult in good condition, and do not take into account tour length.

Big Room (self guided)

• Trail Length: 1.2 miles
• Trail Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Traffic: Very Heavy

The Tour: This is the most commonly taken tour in the park, for good reason. It is easy (an elevator can be taken down to the tour level) and flat, it requires no reservations or guide, and it tours some of the most decorated cave areas publicly accessible anywhere. The Big Room is well-named; it covers 357,480 square feet or 8.2 acres. When most people think of caves, and Carlsbad Caverns in particular, they are likely thinking of formations seen on this tour.

Natural Entrance (self guided)

• Trail Length: 1.3 miles
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Traffic: Medium

The Tour: Anyone able should bypass the elevator ride down to the Big Room and take this route instead. It steeply descends on a paved surface almost the entire distance, so it can be rather hard on the legs, especially the knees. It is a unique experience to drop into the cave, the sun’s light dimming gradually, bats (harmless) often entering and exiting the massive opening far overhead. While not as massively decorated as the Big Room, there are plenty of amazing formations to view on the way down.

2 Day Itinerary For Visiting The Magical Carlsbad Caverns

We had no idea what to do (besides knowing there was a cave) when we went to Carlsbad Caverns National Park . While there we talked to a ranger and put together a great plan to visit this amazing national park over 2 days!

Table of Contents

Here is our 2 day plan for visiting the caverns

Visitor center.

Plan on making the Visitor center your first stop. This is something we do whenever we visit a national park. Really for 3 reasons.

1 – We need to get our sticker (priorities :)).

2 – The Rangers are great for helping us figure out what we should do at the park.

3 – We can pick up Junior Ranger books for the kids.

Visitor Center Museum and Movie

The visitor center museum isn’t huge but it is well worth a visit to help you learn about the park. I personally really liked the model of the Visitor Center and the elevator showing how far down you go into the cave.

They also have a movie that talks about how the caves were formed.

There is a ticket booth in the visitor center if you want to do a guided tour or if you want to visit the self guided Big Room or the Natural Entrance. If you have a National Park pass you can get in for free to the Big Room or Natural Entrance. If not you will have to pay per person (kids 15 and under are free).

Once checking in there and getting tickets we headed over to the elevator (again in the Visitor Center) and a Park Ranger does an intro with some rules and then they put you in the elevator. . . that takes you 750 down into the Big Room!

Once you reach the bottom you get off and we couldn’t even believe it – there is a gift shop, snack shop and regular bathrooms right in the cave. Go figure! From here you can go on the self guided walk around the Big Room.

It is about 1 1/4 mile around and is a nice even walk most of the time with a couple of places that have a steep incline or decline. They do not allow strollers and there are sections that are not wheelchair friendly.

As you walk around the Big Room there are signs that you can stop to read to learn more about the caverns. The caverns are lighted the whole way through so you can always get a good view of the amaziness of the caverns!

If you are there the right time of year (May – October but check their site to confirm) you can watch 100’s of 1,000’s of Brazilian free tailed bats fly out of the Natural Entrance of the caverns. Prior to the flight the ranger does a brief discussion before the bats start flying.

Once they start flying everyone is told to be quiet. And prior to that the ranger has everyone TURN OFF not just put on silent but actually turn off their phones. They have done studies and the phones bother the bats when they are on so everything must be turned off.

The bats then fly out of the cave and we had heard it could last as long as 3 hours! Don’t worry you don’t have to stay there for the whole thing. You can stay as long as you would like and then quietly walk out.

It was quite the site and well worth being there to see it! If you want you can head out before sunset and catch the sunset over the Chihuahuan desert from the Visitor Center. A New Mexico sunset is beautiful.

Hike down the Natural Entrance

T-shirt and hats from https://besawyer.com/. We LOVE their clothes!

The Natural Entrance takes you back to the Big Room. But instead of taking the elevator you take a trail that starts from the same entrance the bats flew out of the night before . . . never fear the bats are sleeping now.

The 1 1/4 mile trail has a variety of switch backs and inclines and declines as you make your way 750 feet down into the Big Room. The trail itself has lots of great things you can see. And the nice thing is when you get the bottom you can either choose to walk the Big Room trail again or just head straight to the elevator for the 750 foot trip up. Our kids were really happy they didn’t have to hike up and out of the caverns!

Our 6 year old completed the whole thing by himself and again with most of it being downhill it wasn’t that difficult of a hike. We have heard it can be slick and there were some steep inclines and declines so keep that in mind.

In order to get to the Natural Entrance Trail you will need to go back into the Visitor Center and check in at the tour desk (same one you did for the Big Room). You can use your National Park pass again to get in for free.

Once you have your recipet in hand you walk down to the trail entrance – where a Ranger is waiting to take your ticket, give you a brief overview with some rules, and send you onto the trail.

Junior Ranger Program

When you take the elevator up you end up back at the Visitor Center. We opted to walk around the museum area again and then found a table to sit down to work on the Junior Ranger books with the kids.

Once done they got sword in as Junior Rangers and got their Carlsbad Caverns badge.

If you enjoy guided tours you could choose to do one of them in the afternoon. The National Park Service offers a variety of tours. We opted for not doing any guided tours as we know our kids do better when they can walk at their own pace.

One of the highlights of the tours is seeing the Queens Chamber on the Kings Palace tour .

Or you could chose to go on a caving tour by visiting the Lower Cave  with a guide.

Guadeloupe Mountain Brewing Company

If a guided tour isn’t your thing then you can head out to the city of Carlsbad New Mexico and stop at a brewery. The wine was really good at the brewery too!

Information on the Caverns

The Carlsbad Caverns Visitor Centers hours are different for summer compared to Labor Day to Memorial Day so be sure to check their site for hours. Also know that they set a time to close the Natural Entrance (2pm or 3:30 depending on the time of year so earlier in the day). This is a good thing since you don’t want to be there when the bats come out!

And the same for the Big Room elevator that stops taking people down at certain times (3:30 or 5pm depending on time of year)

Make sure to check their site in case times have changed.

What To Wear

The cave is around 56 degrees but remember you are walking around so we would recommend layers. Everyone had on a sweatshirt or t-shirt and we were fine.

We also did the Big Room in sandals . . . and it was OK. But if you plan ahead just wear shoes. It just makes sense :).

For the Natural Entrance shoes would definitely be recommended.

Where To Stay

Rv park – white’s city .

This was basically a parking lot but it is really close to the Carlsbad entrance and we could be to the Visitor Center in 15 minutes. This was great since we could go do the Big Room then come back for lunch before heading back to the Bat Flight.

If you don’t have an RV consider renting an RV for your trip !

Hotel – White’s City

We didn’t walk into this hotel but it is located right across from the RV park so for the same reasons above it makes sense to stay here if you are here to see the Caverns.

Lechuguilla cave is the deepest limestone cave in the country – unfortunately you can’t go down there. It is currently only used for scientific research.

Other Things To Do In The Area

Bandelier National Monument – See the homes of ancestral Puebloans.

Rattlesnake Springs – A nice oasis to visit in the area.

Wilderness Area – There is a large wilderness area around the caves that can be explored.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park – Located in Texas.

A little farther away is White Sands National Park – which we highly recommend!

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Carlsbad Caverns vs. Mammoth Cave: Which is Better?

When comparing Carlsbad Caverns to Mammoth Cave, it can be difficult to determine which of these national parks is better.

While both have incredible caves at the heart of the parks, each one has its own specific reasons why you should visit.

My family and I have explored both, so I’m breaking down everything you need to know about each park below, including highlights of what to see and do, which tours to take, and more.

With Mammoth Cave National Park located in Cave City, Kentucky, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, you’ve got options on both sides of the United States!

Let’s dive into what these cave-based parks have in common, and what makes each of them stand out.

Highlights in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Located in southeastern New Mexico—just a few miles from the Texas border—Carlsbad Caverns offers up incredible hiking above ground in the Chihuahuan Desert and miles of pathways 600 feet below the ground.

While your Carlsbad Caverns itinerary needs a full 2 days to truly appreciate the entire national park, the heart of this property is in its intricate caverns.

NOTE: You will need a reservation to enter the caverns, a process that comes with a $1 fee per person. This fee is in addition to your entrance fee and any tours you choose to go on.

Desert Beauty in an Ancient Seabed

It’s hard to believe now, but this area of New Mexico was once covered in water.

Back when the continents were squished together in Pangea, that sea was somewhere near the equator.

The salty, warm sea ultimately created a massive reef, which eventually fossilized, leaving behind the incredible formations that we can now tour inside Carlsbad Caverns.

While the cave was officially discovered by Jim White in the late 1890s, this expanse of desert had been occupied for more than 14,000 years by local Native American tribes, meaning that the park has a rich history .

White, who was a teenager at the time of his discovery, was a pioneer in New Mexico caving, and is largely responsible for bringing tourism to this cave.

Even today, that spirit of exploration continues for visitors who choose to walk the same route as White’s first journey into the cave.

That walk into the Natural Entrance of the cave provides some scale as to the vastness of this place, and it is an excellent way to start your visit to the caverns.

Exploring the Park

Carlsbad Caverns has plenty to do above and below ground, so plan to spend 1-2 full days here.

If you’re just interested in the caves, you should do the self-guided tour of the Big Room and the Natural Entrance.

These tours provide a great overview of the layout of the caverns and allow you to see the gorgeous and intricate cave formations here.

I’d also highly recommend the Carlsbad Caverns King’s Palace Tour , which (at the time of this writing) was the only ranger-led tour available at the national park.

This 1.5 hour tour gives you access to areas off-limits to the self-guided tour folks, and you’ll have an experienced and knowledgeable ranger to share fascinating details about the cave’s history, biology, geology and more.

There are several excellent surface hikes, the Bat Flight program, and the Junior Ranger program.

The closest town is Carlsbad, New Mexico, which offers up a variety of restaurants, shops, and big box stores.

If you have another day or two, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is just across the Texas-New Mexico border!

Carlsbad Caverns National Park with Kids

While both Carlsbad Caverns and Mammoth Cave are both fascinating for kids, we found that Carlsbad Caverns had a bit more of a wow factor to it.

This is largely because of the sheer number of stalactites and stalagmites that decorate every inch of this cave.

The Big Room in particular is stunning in its vastness and rock formations: this room alone has a 1.5 mile loop trail, where you’ll see cave pools, rock formations, draperies, and more.

Yet, this cave is incredibly accessible, meaning that families with small children and those with disabilities can still explore fully.

The entire self-guided tour has a wide, paved path with clearly marked handrails and signage.

I found this tour to be one of the most accessible in all of the national parks that we’ve toured so far.

To get to the Big Room, you have 2 choices:

You can choose to go down elevators through several hundred feet of bedrock, which is an adventure of its own for younger kids, or

You can walk the 1.25 miles down through the Natural Entrance. For older kids who don’t mind the extra walking, this is the way to go thanks to the awe-inspiring (and huge!) entrance into the side of the cliff face.

Other kid-friendly things to do here include the excellent ranger program, the interactive visitors center exhibits, and the short surface walks.

Best of all, we found many other things to do in and near Carlsbad, New Mexico, for my family when we were outside of the park.

One of our favorites was exploring Lake Brantley State Park, which has one of the best campgrounds in New Mexico !

Highlights in Mammoth Cave National Park

Over on the other side of the United States is Mammoth Cave National Park, which is hidden away in pine-covered hills just off of I-65.

Located about halfway between Louisville, Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee, this beautiful national park is a great road trip stop or a long weekend destination from either city.

Mammoth Cave National Park is such an important site that it was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, providing further protections for this national park.

Much like Carlsbad Caverns, you’ll need 2 days to full appreciate this area, but Mammoth Cave can be done in 1 day if you’re in a rush.

NOTE: You do NOT need a reservation time for this national park at the time of this writing. You will need to pay the entrance fee and for any tours you plan to go on.

You’ll need to book those tours ahead of time to ensure that you get the time, date, and tour that’s best for your family.

History in the Rolling Hills of Kentucky

Unlike Carlsbad Caverns which was never used directly for human habitation, Mammoth Cave National Park has been in use by humans since at least 5,000 BCE.

During that time, native tribes used it for shelter, for mining, and for food preservation.

When the first Europeans made contact with the cave, they continued to explore the massive underground caverns and to seek out new ways to use the resources they found within.

Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of all of these explorers on the self-guided tour or one of the many ranger-led tours.

While this cave doesn’t have the massive entrance that Carlsbad Caverns has, the descent down into the dark cave mouth is still fascinating.

All of the tours begin here and require visitors to walk down several sets of steep stone stairs.

Unlike Carlsbad Caverns, Mammoth Cave has many areas that aren’t great for very young children or those with mobility issues.

The stairs at the entrance and exit points are both steep (and numerous!), and several passages, including the Fat Man’s Misery, are impassable for those who can’t manuever their way through tight passages.

Visiting during the spring and fall are the best times as the crowds are lighter and the weather is perfect for those surface hikes.

October visits also have the added bonus of gorgeous fall foliage through this area of Kentucky.

The closest town to Mammoth Cave National Park is Cave City, Kentucky. While it is small, it offers up several chain hotels, a few restaurants, and the historic Wigwam Village motel , which is our choice for where to stay.

Kids will also enjoy the nearby Dinosaur World, which is kitschy in the best way.

Mammoth Cave National Park with Kids

Instead of—or in addition to—the self-guided tour, you’re going to want to take a ranger-led tour while at Mammoth Cave.

We love doing these walks with the rangers at national parks because the experience provides so much history, science, and culture that just isn’t possible with a brochure and signage.

The best Mammoth Cave tour for kids is the Historic Tour, which my family and I loved.

On this tour, your ranger guide will show you many fascinating features of the cave, including the Bottomless Pit, the old saltpeter mining equipment, the treacherous path taken by the earliest European explorers, and Fat Man’s Misery.

The 2 hour tour allows families to go in depth within the cave’s history without letting kids get too fidgety.

Elsewhere in the park, kids should complete the free Junior Ranger program to earn a badge—a favorite of the Camping Kiddos!

We also enjoyed the beautifully done interpretive exhibits in the visitors center, which is well worth a half an hour or so.

If the weather is nice, head out onto one of the many surface trails that crisscross the park to get a feel for what this area is like above and below ground.

Final Thoughts: Carlsbad Caverns vs. Mammoth Cave

Since both national parks are incredible, much of your decision will come down to your choice of location. Would you rather explore an otherworldly, remote desert location or a more conveniently located forested location?

Of the two cave systems, Carlsbad Caverns is the more visually stunning, thanks to the vast number of intricate rock formations.

Carlsbad Caverns also wins for the best cave entrance, thanks to the massive Natural Entrance.

Plus, Carlsbad Caverns has the Bat Flight program , which is unique. While Mammoth Cave has more than a dozen types of bats that live there, you’ll only find the nightly bat flight at Carlsbad Caverns during the late spring and summer.

Mammoth Cave, however, truly lives up to its name, particularly in areas like the Rotunda Room, which could easily fit several houses inside of it with room to spare.

Mammoth Cave has fewer stalactites and stalagmites than Carlsbad Caverns, but the rock features—and the sheer vastness of the caves—more than makes up for that lack of decoration.

Mammoth Cave also has a longer human history timeline, which could be a consideration for those more interested in the historical over the geological.

I appreciated that Mammoth Cave had more ranger-led tours available, but I’m also hoping that Carlsbad Caverns will reinstate more of their programs in the coming years.

We loved the difference experience we had at both of these incredible national parks, and I hope that you’ll be able to visit one—or both—of these with your family soon!

How long does it take to tour Carlsbad Caverns?

by Dan Miller | Feb 13, 2017 | all , family travel | 7 comments

I know that I am a “fast” traveler – meaning that generally I prefer to see a lot of things for a short period of time instead of spending a lot of time on any one thing.  But I also didn’t want to just blow off a world heritage site !

Where is Carlsbad Caverns New Mexico?

Carlsbad Caverns is located right off of US 62/180 about 10 miles southwest of the town of Carlsbad, New Mexico.  It’s about a 2 hour drive northeast of El Paso, Texas

Carlsbad Caverns tour hours, times and cost

Carlsbad Caverns is open all year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.  They have 2 different seasons – the “main” season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and the “off” season between Labor Day and Memorial Day.  The Carlsbad Caverns tour hours are listed on the official NPS park website .  During the off season, the last time to walk into the cave is 2:30 p.m. and the last elevator down is 5pm.  In summer, the Carlsbad Caverns tour hours are 3:30 for the last walk in and 5 p.m. for the last elevator down.  Note that there are not scheduled elevator times – so you don’t have to worry about being there on the hour or on the half hour

Carlsbad Caverns tour cost is $10 for adults, and children under 16 are free.  Also this isn’t one of those “fake” parks where it’s free to enter the park but they charge other fairly mandatory fees for parking or other things.  So if you have a National Parks pass or Every Kid in a Park pass or something like that, the Carlsbad Caverns tour cost will be free.  You can also pay extra for ranger led or other Carlsbad Caverns guided tours

Remember that these Carlsbad Caverns hours of operation are in the MOUNTAIN time zone, like the rest of New Mexico (and El Paso, TX).

How long does it take to tour Carlsbad Caverns – our report

Here was our report on how long does it take to tour Carlsbad Caverns.  We got there about 2 p.m. on a February day (so the off season) and got our passes ($10 for me and free for my under 16 son).  We had the option to hike down (it supposedly takes another hour) or just take the elevator – we opted for the elevator down.  The Carlsbad Caverns elevator goes 750 feet below the surface in about a minute.

Is a half day enough to tour Carlsbad Caverns?

In my opinion a half day is more than enough to tour Carlsbad Caverns.  Unless you’re a serious hiker or VERY interested in caves / geology, you’ll be through in 2-3 hours.

We took the elevator down and took the self-guided Carlsbad Caverns tour through the Big Room.  We stopped and read every informational side, took tons of pictures and were back to the surface in about 75 minutes.  If you wanted, you can hike down, but I’d imagine you’re seeing more of the same kind of thing.  I don’t want to downplay the beauty of nature (it WAS truly majestic and awe-inspiring down there) but there’s definitely a little bit of when you see one stalactite, you’ve seen them all :-). If you do plan on doing a Carlsbad Caverns tour in half a day, I’d recommend going in the afternoon so that you can see the bat flight around sunset (they are not there in the winter and weren’t there in February when we were there)

Unless you’re doing a Carlsbad Caverns guided tour, the Big Room self guided tour (and the optional hike down / up) are the only areas that are open to the public.

Have you been to Carlsbad Caverns National Park?  How long would you say it takes to tour Carlsbad Caverns?

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There are several tours available for extra cost. I embarked on one where you and a few other people go into a part of Carlsbad Caverns through some tight spaces — and then sit for a few moments in complete darkness and silence. I forgot the name of the tour at the moment; but it was simply amazing.

That tour cost $20.00 extra some years ago — but it was well worth it.

Thanks Brian!

The hike down is worth it. Ealing down into the cavern from above and slowly leaving the natural light behind is a pretty awesome experience.

Yeah if I had realized that the Big Room tour would only be a little more than an hour, I think I would have hiked down and taken the elevator back up. Of course, I wouldn’t have enjoyed getting into our hotel (in Abilene!) an extra hour later (we got in at about 12:30 a.m. as it was)!

Thank you for sharing your experience and perspective. Planning a trip that mirrors your itin…..we are starting from Lubbock & only have 1/2 day (afternoon) at Carlsbad Caverns—tight schedule so we can journey on to White Sands next day.

Awesome! I’ve got a post coming up on how to rent sleds at White Sands

Is there a dog care facility available while I tour the caverns?

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Lower Cave Tour Reservation

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Tours

• In 1924, a National Geographic expedition wrote about the wonders of Lower Cave. Today visitors can see these wonders for themselves as well as evidence from early explorations. This exciting adventure begins with a 15 foot (4.5 m) descent down smooth flowstone using a knotted rope. Your journey continues down another 75 feet (17 m) on a series of three steep ladders. From there you continue past clear pools, cave pearls and a myriad of exceptional cave formations. Not recommended for anyone who is afraid of heights, enclosed spaces or darkness. The trail is wet or muddy in many places, making it extremely slippery. 
• Hiking boots or hiking shoes with good aggressive tread are required. No sandals, flip flops, tennis shoes, or similar footwear. You will not be allowed to participate in the tour if you are not wearing proper footwear—no exceptions.
• Only very small fanny packs and very small cameras are permitted on the tour. No backpacks of any kind and size.
• All items not permitted must be brought back to the visitor's vehicle. Helmets, headlamp and gloves will be provided.  
• Children under 12 years of age are not allowed. 
• Note that caving is inherently risky and cave rescues are difficult, dangerous and take hours to accomplish.

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

• I have read and agree with the arrival time requirements for guided tours. 
• Reserved tickets must be picked up no later than 30 minutes prior to the posted tour starting time. No refunds for late arrivals . 
• Visitor Center Hours—8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  
• Participants are required to have a general entrance and a tour ticket. Long sleeves or a light jacket recommended. 
• Prices for Inter-agency Senior and Access pass holders are for those pass holders only. All others must purchase a separate full priced tour ticket. 
• Do not wear or bring any items that have been in any other caves or mines. A disease known as White-Nose Syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading to our bats, do not wear shoes, clothing, or bring any gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park that were in another cave.
• Accessibility: There is no handicap accessibility on this tour. 
• Amenities: Restrooms are located in the visitor center and in the cavern Underground Lunchroom. There are no restroom opportunities during the tour. There is a restaurant in the visitor center as well as the possibility of limited food available in the cavern Underground Lunchroom. Bookstore and gift shop are located in the visitor center. Kennel Services are available.

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Last updated: February 24, 2024

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Contact info, mailing address:.

3225 National Parks Highway Carlsbad, NM 88220

575 785-2232

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