Carlsbad Caverns National Park

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Touring the Cavern

Carlsbad Caverns is a place for the explorer in all of us. If you enjoy the thrill of what’s coming around the corner, you need to visit this New Mexico national park. There are a few ways to tour the cave so lets figure out what the best option is for you.

Natural Entrance

You can get into the cave in one of 2 ways. The Natural Entrance is a 1.25 mile trail that takes you from the surface into the cave. You’ll hike 750 feet down and see some pretty amazing things on the way. It’s a moderate hike as the steepness of the trail can be hard on your knees, but the views are worth every step. Still, the sheer length and depth with which you’re traveling down may not be for everyone. If that’s you, take the elevator. That’s right, they have an elevator. You’ll miss all the views the trail gives, but you’re going into the cave so it’s a win! Make sure to make a timed reservation to hike into the cave before you go. I suggest going early to give yourself plenty of time.

Big Room

Whichever way you’ve chosen to go into the cave, you’ll end up in the Big Room. This massive cave chamber is the largest in North America so I think it’s save to say it shouldn’t be missed. The National Park Service has created a 0.6 mile or 1.25 mile trail loop to help you explore. You’ll see things like Rock of Ages, Mirror Lake, and Painted Grotto. Parts of the trail are accessible. Here’s the guide for more details on that.

King's Palace

If you’re looking for more cave adventure and great history about the cave, check out the King’s Palace Ranger-Guided Tour. This area of the cave is only open to those who have booked the tour. It takes about 1.5 hours and is $8 a person.

New Mexico Parks

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