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Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

warningInformation5 warnings calendar_monthMar–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule2 daysplan for directions_car3 h 16from El Paso child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$1entry
Carlsbad Caverns National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Information Closures 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. Details open_in_new

Information Fire 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 fo

Information Items 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. Details open_in_new

Information Timed 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. Details open_in_new

Information Footwear 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.

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Explore stunning underground formations

Things to do

Lower Cave Tour
3 Hours · Winter/Spring

In 1924, National Geographic expedition members wrote about the wonders of Lower Cave. Visitors today can see...

King's Palace Tour
90 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The King's Palace Tour takes visitors through four highly decorated chambers and the deepest portion of the ca...

Walnut Canyon Desert Drive
1 Hour · Winter/Spring

Discover canyon views, desert plants, and wildlife along this unpaved road.

Explore the Cavern at Your Own Pace
1-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

The Big Room and Natural Entrance trails can be enjoyed at your own pace. The Big Room Trail is easy to modera...

Guadalupe Ridge Trail (GRT)
5-6 Days · Winter/Spring

This trail covers 100 miles (161 km) through Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Lincoln National Forest, Bureau o...

Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area
Winter/Spring

Have a relaxing picnic among tall cottonwood trees and watch for a variety of birds.

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail
30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Enjoy views of the Guadalupe Mountains and explore Chihuahuan Desert plant life along this short 0.7 mile (1.1...

Night Sky Programs
1-2 Hours · Summer/Fall

Enjoy the night sky at Carlsbad Caverns National Park during a ranger-led night sky program.

Bat Flight Program
0-60 Minutes · Summer/Fall

Enjoy an evening ranger talk about the park's population of Brazilian Free-tailed Bats and experience their em...

Walnut Canyon Overlook Trail
5 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This short 180 yards (165 m) paved walkway provides great views of Walnut Canyon.

Juniper Ridge Trail
3 Hours · Winter/Spring

Enjoy the Chihuahuan Desert in a serene landscape along this 3.5 mile (5 km) trail.

Old Guano Trail
2 Hours · Winter/Spring

This 3.7 miles (6km) trail descends the escarpment, ending at the White's City campground.

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Since: 1930
Open: Daily 9:00AM - 2:30PM
Price: Timed Entry Reservation - Lo $1, Per Person $15

Good to know

Accessibility: wheelchair accessible areas available
Opening hours: Daily 9:00AM - 2:30PM
Phone: 5752432914
Price: ~$1
Website: www.nps.gov

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons