Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the natural beauty of the American Southwest. The park is home to over 119 limestone caves, the most famous of which is Carlsbad Cavern.
Outdoor activities
Explore the great outdoors by enjoying activities in Carlsbad Caverns. From hiking to bat-watching, there's something for everyone.
Hiking
The park offers several hiking trails that take you to the mouth of the cave and offer stunning views of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. The most popular trail is the Natural Entrance Trail, which is a 1.25-mile self-guided walk that takes you down into the caverns. This trail is considered moderate in difficulty and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Bat Flight Program
The park offers a Bat Flight Program, which is held during the summer months, where visitors can watch thousands of bats emerge from the cave at sunset. It is a unique experience and highly recommended.
Must See Places
Discover the must-see sights in Carlsbad. We'll guide you to the best spots for an unforgettable experience.
Carlsbad Cavern
Carlsbad Cavern is the main attraction of the park and is a must-see for any visitor. The cavern is over 800 feet deep and has several rooms and formations to explore. The park offers several guided cavern tours, including the King’s Palace and the Big Room tour.
The Guadalupe Mountains
The Guadalupe Mountains are located just outside the park and offer some of the most breathtaking views in the area. The park offers a scenic drive that takes you to the top of the mountains, where you can see for miles in every direction.
Unusual Tip
Uncover the hidden gems! This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.
Visit Off-Season
Visit the park during the off-season: The park is busiest during the summer months, so if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the fall or winter. Not only will you have the park almost to yourself, but you’ll also get to experience the caves in a different light as the natural light changes with the season.
Hidden Wonders
These two places from Atlas Obscura offer unique and outstanding experiences.
The Bat Flight Amphitheater
This unique outdoor theater is located on a hillside just outside the cave entrance and offers a front-row seat to watch the bats emerge from the cave at sunset. The amphitheater was built in the 1930s and is a great place to sit and relax while watching the bats fly out for their nightly feeding.
The Hall of the White Giant
This large chamber in the back of the cavern is home to a formation known as the “White Giant.” The formation is a large, white stalagmite that stands over 50 feet tall and is considered one of the most spectacular sights in the cavern. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the White Giant and learn more about the formation’s geology and history.
Accommodation Suggestions
Here are four accommodation suggestions in various budgets for Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Note: Please check the availability and pricing as it is subject to change.
Budget:
Carlsbad Caverns Campground – This campground is located inside the park and offers RV and tent camping sites. The campground has basic amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. It’s a great option for those looking to save money while still being able to enjoy the park.
Moderate:
Best Western Plus Carlsbad – This hotel is located just outside the park and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as a fitness center.
Luxury:
The Lodge at Carlsbad Caverns – This hotel is located inside the park and offers luxurious rooms with private balconies that offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. The hotel has an on-site restaurant, as well as a bar and lounge. Guests can also enjoy a fitness center and outdoor pool.
Unique:
Cave House – This unique accommodation is located inside the park and offers visitors the opportunity to stay inside a cave. The cave house has been converted into a comfortable living space and offers a unique experience for those looking to truly immerse themselves in the park’s natural environment.
Overall, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the natural beauty of the American Southwest. With its stunning limestone caves, hiking trails, and unique wildlife, the park offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and head to Carlsbad Caverns National Park for an unforgettable experience.
