Deep under New Mexico is one of the most stunning and beautiful national parks. Carlsbad Caverns, under the Guadalupe Mountains near the border of Texas, is an otherworldly complex of caves and tunnels that is unquestionably worthy of a visit. This, however, is not a rare sentiment. As such, thereâs timed entry to keep the crowds manageable. That shouldnât dissuade you from visiting however.
While parts of the caverns are easily accessible, other parts require rather strenuous climbs. Other parts are rather narrow, or with low ceilings, which might teach you that you were actually claustrophobic all along.
So while it might be a bit of a drive to get there, itâs worth it, not least because itâs near two other great parks, Guadalupe Mountains and Great Sand Dunes. Here are a few things to know ahead of time.
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Timed Entry
Unlike most national parks, you need to reserve your time to enter. This is to prevent overcrowding. Both adults and children need a spot reserved, but fortunately each only costs $1. You can reserve up to 30 days in advance for a 60 minute arrival window.
There is an elevator
From the main visitorâs center you can take an elevator down to the main cavern area. HoweverâŠ
Donât take the elevator down
If youâre reasonably fit, I highly recommend walking down into the caverns through the natural entrance, and then taking the elevator back up. This is an experience Iâm extremely glad I did, letting you discover the caverns’ different layers, being amazed at every turn, only to discover the next corner reveals something even more incredible. Also, walking back up this route is quite a climb.
Accessible, mostly
The main cavern complex has paved paths that are fairly easy to navigate. Many areas are even wheelchair accessible, though not all. There arenât many places to sit once you start exploring, however.
The caves are cool and damp
Layers! Even if itâs hot on the surface, the caverns stay around 56 degrees year round.
Voices carry
Some visitors enjoy listening to the sounds of the cavern, not other visitors. Youâll be easily heard in most parts of the caverns.
Learn how to take photos without a flash
Most modern cameras can take great photos without a flash. Check how to enable ânight modeâ or something similar, as the cavern is fairly dim, and most of the cool stalactites and âmites are too far for a flash to illuminate.
Guided Tours
You can explore the caverns at your own speed. Thereâs also a guided tour of the King’s Palace. This takes about 90 minutes and costs $1 per person. The ranger might turn off the lights so everyone can experience absolute darkness. Currently the Kingâs Palace is the only guided tour available, but historically there have been others available. Itâs worth checking the parkâs website to see if others are offered again.
Bats!
Every evening May through October, a ranger will host the Bat Flight Program at the appropriately named Bat Flight Amphitheater. Theyâll discuss the lives and habits of the local bat population, which will fly overhead as the sun sets as they seek out their nightly dinner. No photos during the Bat Flight Program without a special permit.
Donât miss Guadalupe Mountains National Park
A little south from Carlsbad, but part of the same mountain range, GMNP is essentially the surface version CCNP. Guadalupe is one of the less visited parks, with just 220k annual visitors. There are some lovely hikes, though I wouldnât advise going in the summer unless youâre experienced.