Carlsbad Caverns National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico, is a stunning natural wonder that draws visitors from around the world. The park is best known for its vast underground caverns, which were formed over millions of years by sulfuric acid dissolving the surrounding limestone. The most famous of these caverns is the Big Room, which is the largest single cave chamber by volume in North America. Visitors can explore the caverns on self-guided tours, ranger-led tours, or even take a challenging guided wild cave tour for a more adventurous experience.
Aside from the incredible underground formations, Carlsbad Caverns National Park also offers above-ground attractions for visitors to enjoy. The park's diverse desert landscape is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. Visitors can also experience the park's stunning night sky, as it has been designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
In addition to its natural beauty, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is steeped in history and culture. The area has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and evidence of ancient Native American civilizations can still be found within the park. The nearby town of Carlsbad offers a charming blend of local culture and hospitality, with a variety of dining and accommodation options for visitors.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: The Caverns Historic District, Rattlesnake Springs Historic District. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Carlsbad Caverns National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Florida scrub jay
The Florida scrub jay is a captivating bird found exclusively in Florida, making it a prime attraction for birdwatchers. This distinctive species has inhabited Florida for at least 2 million years and thrives in scrub habitats characterized by nutrient-poor soil...
Birds
Barbary Sheep, Arui, Aoudad
The Barbary sheep, also known as arrui or aoudad, is a captivating caprid species native to the rugged mountains of North Africa. There are six recognized subspecies of this animal. Although they are rare in their native regions, Barbary sheep have been introduced...
Mammals
American Bison, Buffalo
The American bison, often referred to as the American buffalo, is a majestic animal that historically roamed North America in vast herds. These herds once stretched from Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico. Due to mid-20th century conservation efforts, the bison population...
Mammals
Pinyon jay
The Pinyon Jay is a distinctive bird native to North America, easily recognized by its bluish-grey feathers and characteristic rhythmic calls. These birds are highly social, often seen in large flocks, and are notable for their nutcracker-like beaks.
Birds
Golden eagle
The golden eagle, a majestic bird of prey revered across the Northern Hemisphere, belongs to the Accipitridae family. These eagles are easily identified by their dark brown feathers accented with striking golden-brown patches on their necks.
Birds
New Mexico