Carlsbad Caverns State Park

Delve into otherworldly cave and rock formations in Carlsbad Caverns State Park. More than 100 caves await, many with established trails for you to explore.

The caves

The creation of these caves began more than 250 million years ago. At that time, the area was part of a gigantic inland sea that worked to erode the limestone rock over time. This sea left behind more than 100 impressive caves that are incredibly diverse in texture and beauty. Deepest in the nation, Lechuguilla Cave resides here and reaches 1,567 feet deep into the Earth. Other popular caves are the Big Room, King's Palace, Slaughter Canyon Cave and the Hall of the White Giant, where you can explore independently or participate in a ranger-guided walk. Make sure you are prepared for strenuous climbs, rope ladder crossings and tight crawls.

Other activities

You may think that all Carlsbad Caverns State Park has to offer is its caves, but the park encompasses 33,000 acres of rugged wilderness. Here you can hike one of hundreds of primitive trails and rest under a starry night sky. If you like scenic drives, hop on the Walnut Canyon Road to enjoy a 9.5 mile loop through the heart of the park and a stop at the visitor's center. The visitor's center offers exhibitions and information on the geological processes that formed this landscape. One of the highlights of the park is only viewed from May to October. At dusk, gather in the park's amphitheater to watch a mass exodus of bats flying from the caves.

Carlsbad Caverns State Park offers an expansive area for you and your family to explore. Check out the many caves, take a scenic drive or backpack for days at a time amid a pristine wilderness.