Visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park should be at the top of your list! Situated in southeastern New Mexico, this park is home to incredible underground limestone caverns, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. There are so many incredible and unique things to do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Whether you are a single traveler or traveling with family or friends, there is something for everyone at this unique national park. From cave tours to outdoor activities like hiking, we’ll go over all the wonderful things that Carlsbad Caverns has to offer so you can plan your perfect trip.
Things to Do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a wonderland of natural beauty and subterranean adventures. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply a lover of awe-inspiring scenery, this national park has something to offer.
Descending into the depths of the caverns, you’ll be transported to another world, where stunning formations await. But the fun doesn’t end there; the park is also home to hiking trails and even a bat flight program. With so much to see and explore, let’s get to the list of things to do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
1. Take a Scenic Drive
Take a scenic drive to get to the Carlsbad Caverns visitor center and experience the beauty of the area from your car. From panoramic views of the surrounding hills to sweeping vistas of the desert, this drive offers a chance to take in the natural beauty of the desert.
As you make your way through the winding road, keep an eye out for the pullouts and short trails that are dispersed along the route. These stops give you the opportunity to stretch your legs and explore some of the stunning landscapes.
2. Check Out the Visitor Center
If you’re heading to the park, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center. There, you’ll find plenty to do, from watching a video that explains the biology and history of the cave, to exploring exhibits that detail the area’s rich oceanic history and current geology. You’ll also learn about the people who used to live in this area.
When you’re done taking in the educational exhibits, check out the gift shop, which is brimming with unique souvenirs. And if you’re feeling hungry, grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to leave the Visitor Center feeling more connected to this fascinating place.
3. Become a Junior Ranger
One of the absolute best things to do with kids at Carlsbad Caverns is the Junior Ranger program. The fun-filled activity book will keep them engaged during your visit and help them to learn more about the park.
With age-appropriate material, there are activities for all of your children to enjoy. Plus, they will get a sense of accomplishment when they are able to earn their Junior Ranger Badge and take the Junior Ranger Pledge.
Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Book and pencil from the visitor center and start exploring Carlsbad Caverns National Park. If you want to have them in advance or miss it while you’re there, you can also download the books on the nps.gov website.
4. Go on a Self-Guided Cavern Tour
The self-guided tour is a great way to experience Carlsbad Caverns. Currently, the guided tours are very limited and sell out almost immediately upon being made available, making the self-guided option the best bet for most visitors.
You can rent an audio guide device to take along on your tour that gives detailed information on the history and geology of the cave at numbered stops. There is also a children’s version.
Can you get into Carlsbad Caverns without a reservation?
You cannot go into the cave without a reservation. You will need to go to Recreation.gov to reserve a timed entry slot to enter the cave.
How long is a self-guided tour of Carlsbad?
The total time it takes to tour all of Carlsbad Caverns is about 2.5 hours. That time includes the 1.25-mile descent into the cave on foot. If you were to take the elevator in and out instead it would only be about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the wait time at the elevator.
It takes about one hour to descend to the bottom of the cavern through the natural entrance trail and walk to the Big Room. There are a lot of great cave formations to see along the way and quite a few places to sit and take a breather if you need.
Once at the bottom, you can take a quick detour to the bathrooms and snack stand or continue on with your tour of the Big Room. The Big Room has some of the most fascinating cave formations we have seen to date and is absolutely worth the 1.25-mile walk. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on how much you stop and read or look around along the way.
Mail a Postcard from the Cave
One unique thing to do at the bottom of the cavern that you don’t want to miss is to send a postcard. These can be bought and sent from inside the cavern. Just make sure you have the addresses you need because there is no cell phone service from 750 feet below the surface.
5. Take a Ranger Guided Cavern Tour
While visitors are welcome to explore certain areas of the cave on their own, there are many more gems that can only be accessed through a guided tour. Led by experienced park rangers, these tours will take you to areas off the beaten path and show you even more of the spectacular formations that the cavern has to offer. You’ll learn about the cave’s fascinating geologic history while experiencing its sheer grandeur in a way that is impossible to replicate on your own.
Is there a guided tour at Carlsbad Caverns?
Yes. Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers ranger-guided tours in addition to a self-guided tour.
Kings Palace Guided Tour
Discover the underground world of Carlsbad Cavern on an incredible ranger-guided tour that takes you 830 feet below the ground. The Kings Palace Tour takes you on a 1.5-hour journey through 4 stunning chambers, each adorned with an array of remarkable formations.
While adults can indulge in this one-of-a-kind tour for $8, children can explore this remarkable sight for just $4. Those under the age of 4 are not permitted. You must also purchase an entrance ticket into the park before embarking on your underground voyage.
Making Reservations for Ranger-Guided Tours
While the Kings Palace Tour is a fabulous opportunity, it is only offered to a limited number of people daily. Two daily time slots for the tour can accommodate up to 12 people each. That is not many people compared to the number of people that visit the park each day.
For your best chance to snag a reservation. Go to recreation.gov and create an account. The tours go on sale at 8:00 AM MST 30 days in advance. Be logged in and ready to put in the number of tickets that you need and checkout.
I tried 3 days in a row and was unable to get 4 tickets. If you are trying to get 1 or 2, you may have better luck. If someone cancels a reservation, it becomes available again on the website.
Slaughter Canyon Cave
For 5.5 hours, visitors are immersed in a world of stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations formed over thousands of years on the Slaughter Canyon Cave Tour. To fully appreciate the natural beauty of this cave, visitors use headlamps to illuminate their path through the winding corridors and cavern.
Unfortunately as of March 2023, the tour is currently unavailable. However, for those eager to explore the incredible underground terrain, keep an eye out for future opportunities to explore the depths of Slaughter Canyon Cave.
6. Attend a Bat Flight Program
As the sun sets over Carlsbad Caverns National Park, it’s the perfect time to attend the Bat Flight Program. It is available nightly from late May through October. As the season progresses and sunset times shift, the start time for this program also changes.
Before the show begins, gather around for an evening ranger talk at the bat flight amphitheater that delves into the world of bats. Learn about their unique behaviors and ecological importance, which sets the stage for the main event.
As darkness descends, thousands of bats take to the sky in a mesmerizing display. Witness their graceful flight patterns and hear the sound of their wings flapping above you. The Bat Flight Program at Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s not to be missed.
7. Attend a Night Sky Program
At Carlsbad Caverns National Park, visitors have the opportunity to attend a Night Sky Program that includes star viewing on certain dates and night hikes. Viewing the sky above the caverns is a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe.
During the star viewing, a park ranger will use their laser pointer to illuminate the sky’s features while providing an informative night sky talk. The night hike is a 1.5-mile walk through the desert with a ranger. These are free but you need to register for the program at the visitor center on the day of your visit.
8. Hike the Trails
There are numerous hiking trails in the park ranging from short to overnight backpacking trips. Here are the options that can be completed within a day along with approximate distances and times.
Short Trails
- Walnut Canyon Overlook: paved, 0.2 miles, 10 minutes
- Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail: 1 mile, 1 hour
- Slaughter Canyon Cave Trail: 1 mile, 1.5 hours
Long Trails
- Juniper Ridge: 7 miles, 5 hours
- Lower Rattlesnake Canyon: 6 miles, 6 hours
- Upper Rattlesnake Canyon to Guadalupe Ridge Loop: 6 miles, 4 hours
9. Enjoy Walnut Canyon Desert Drive
The Scenic Walnut Canyon Desert Drive, located near the Carlsbad Caverns visitor center, is a spectacular journey through the stunning desert landscape. The 9.5-mile gravel one-way loop takes visitors through picturesque views of the desert.
March 2023 Update: Unfortunately, the road is currently closed due to flood damage, but when it reopens, it’s an adventure not to be missed.
10. Stop by Rattlesnake Springs
Amidst the rugged desert landscape, Rattlesnake Springs serves as a refreshing sanctuary. A stunning natural spring and an abundance of towering cottonwood trees provide a cool respite from the intense heat of the sun. But it’s not only humans who seek refuge in this lush oasis – a variety of bird species flock to the area throughout the year, making it a prime spot for bird watching.
While only open during daylight hours for day use, visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic in the shaded area complete with picnic tables, grills, and even pit toilets for convenience.
What to Know Before You Go Into the Cave
Here are some things to know before you go into the cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Are there restrooms in the cavern?
Yes. There are restrooms in the cavern near the elevator. If you are walking in it is about 1-1.5 hours from the entrance.
Can I bring food and drink into Carlsbad Caverns?
Yes. You are allowed to bring food and drinks into the cavern. There is a designated area near the elevator with tables and chairs to eat at.
Can I bring a backpack into Carlsbad Caverns?
Yes. You can bring a backpack into the cavern.
Can I bring a stroller into Carlsbad Caverns?
No. Strollers are not allowed in the cavern.
How cold is it inside Carlsbad Caverns?
Consistently cool and damp, the temperature inside a cave remains at around 56 degrees Fahrenheit with 90% humidity throughout the year. You may wish to bring a jacket along with you.
Can you take pictures in Carlsbad Caverns?
Yes. You can take photos with or without flash and can even bring a tripod.
Do you need reservations for Carlsbad Caverns?
To go into the cave, you must have reservations. Those can be made on Recreation.gov. Reservations become available 30 days in advance at 8:00 AM MST.
Where to Stay When Visiting Carlsbad Caverns
While there are no overnight options within Carlsbad Caverns National Park, there are plenty of accommodation options and campgrounds in nearby White’s City and Carlsbad.
White’s City
White’s City is the closest town to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. There are a few accommodation options including campgrounds and motels.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad has quite a few hotel options. We stayed at the Hyatt House during our stay and had a great experience.
Other Things to Do While Visiting Carlsbad Caverns
There are numerous other nearby things to do while visiting Carlsbad Caverns. Our family’s favorites were heading south to Guadalupe Mountains National Park and visiting the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park. The Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area and White Sands National Park are more of a drive, but also worth a visit if you have the time.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park FAQs
How much does Carlsbad Caverns Cost?
Carlsbad Caverns charges an entrance fee to visit the park. It is $15 for ages 16 and up and is valid for three days. Ages 15 and under are free. You can also get in free using the $80 America the Beautiful annual National Parks pass.
In addition to the entrance fee, there is an additional charge for the tours. The King’s Palace guided tour is $8 for adults and $4 for children. The self-guided tour tickets only cost $1 per person.
How long should you spend at Carlsbad Caverns?
To just see the cave, you need to spend a minimum of 2 hours at Carlsbad Caverns. If you want to walk through the natural entrance, add another hour.
Can you do Carlsbad Caverns in a day?
You can definitely see Carlsbad Caverns in a day. Spend a few hours going on a self-guided tour of the cave or take a ranger-guided tour. On the surface, choose from one of the numerous hiking trails to explore the desert landscape.
Final Thoughts on Carlsbad Caverns
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an impressive and beautiful destination that should not be missed. Take a self-guided or ranger-guided tour of the cave, do some hiking above ground, and stay for the bat program or night sky program. With its stunning desert landscape, interesting wildlife, and unique geological formations, this park will surely leave you with lasting memories.
- Other Nearby National Park Service Sites:
