National Park · Southwest · NM
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
High ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and desert wildlife—treasures above the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. Hidden beneath the surface are more than 119 caves—formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone leaving behind caverns of all sizes.
Current alerts
InformationFire Restrictions
Fire restrictions have been lifted at Carlsbad Caverns which means that fires such as charcoal fires in grills and the use of camp stoves or portable grills will be allowed. Igniting and maintaining an open fire must be done with materials that are commonly used for warmth and food preparations such as natural firewood or charcoal briquettes. Other materials such as flammable liquids, garbage, plastic, aerosol canisters, or other artificial substances are not permitted.
InformationClosures Due to Flood Damage
Some areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive and some trails remain closed after extensive flood damage. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.
InformationItems Worn or Used in Other Caves Not Allowed
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.
InformationTimed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern
Reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased by clicking "more" or calling 877-444-6777. Reservations only select the entry time. Upon arrival at the visitor center, an entrance pass must be purchased.
InformationFootwear in the Cavern
For safety, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended. Flip flops, sandals, and some walking shoes have little or no traction and increase the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. Watch your step and use the handrails when necessary.
Location
32.1409, -104.5530
Key trails & viewpoints
Explore the Cavern at Your Own Pace
The Big Room Trail takes about 1.5 hours to hike. There is a shortcut trail that reduces the distance and hike time to 45 minutes.<br /> <br /> The Natural Entrance Trail takes about 1 hour to hike.
The Big Room and Natural Entrance trails can be enjoyed at your own pace. The Big Room Trail is easy to moderate in difficulty. The Natural Entrance Trail is strenuous. Enjoy one or both to experience a variety of cave formations.
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail
This easy hike takes about 30 minutes with an elevation gain of 100 feet (30.4m).
Enjoy views of the Guadalupe Mountains and explore Chihuahuan Desert plant life along this short 0.7 mile (1.1 km) loop trail.
Walnut Canyon Overlook Trail
Estimated walk time is five minutes one-way.
This short 180 yards (165 m) paved walkway provides great views of Walnut Canyon.
Juniper Ridge Trail
Estimated hiking time is 3 hours one-way.
Enjoy the Chihuahuan Desert in a serene landscape along this 3.5 mile (5 km) trail.
Old Guano Trail
Estimated hiking time is about two hours one-way.
This 3.7 miles (6km) trail descends the escarpment, ending at the White's City campground.
Upper Rattlesnake Canyon Loop Trail
A moderately difficult 6 mile (9.6 km) loop trail in the park's wilderness.
Yucca Canyon Trail
Estimated hike time is 9 hours one-way.
This is a difficult 7.7 mile (12.4 km) trail that climbs quickly up a side canyon to the top of an escarpment.
Slaughter Canyon Cave Trail
Estimated hiking time is about 1.5 hours one-way.
A scenic 0.5 mile (1 km) hike that leads to viewpoints overlooking Slaughter Canyon.
Hours & fees
Hours
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open 24-hours a day. Visitor center hours and cave tour schedule vary throughout the year.
| Monday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
| Sunday | 9:00AM - 2:30PM |
- Timed Entry Reservation - Location — $1.00
A timed entry reservation must be purchased to access Carlsbad Cavern. In addition, an entry pass must be purchased at the visitor center. Time entry reservations ensure a more enjoyable experience and helps to protect the cave formations.
- Entrance - Per Person — $15.00
Entrance fee provides access to Carlsbad Cavern by elevator and hiking in. Ranger-guided tours are an additional fee and can be reserved on recreation.gov.
Activities
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Camping
- Caving
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Hiking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Park Film
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs