Discovering the Wonders of Carlsbad Caverns

Karen Israel
Jan 7
4 min read

Updated: Jan 16

Carlsbad Caverns offers one of the most memorable cave experiences in the United States. Entering through the natural entrance lets you feel the scale and mystery of this underground world from the moment you step inside. The journey through the caverns reveals incredible rock formations shaped over millions of years. After exploring the depths, taking the elevator back up provides a quick return to the surface. Beyond the caverns, the surrounding area has other attractions worth visiting, making it a perfect destination for travelers and adventurers.

Person sitting on a stone bench, smiling at Carlsbad Caverns National Park entrance. Tan building, dry grass, and cactus in the background.

Entering Carlsbad Caverns Through the Natural Entrance

Starting your visit at Carlsbad Caverns by walking down the natural entrance trail is an experience unlike any other. This 1.25 mile trail is extremely steep with winding switchbacks as you journey into the depths of the Earth. Before elevators were installed in the 1930s, this was was the only way in and out of the cave. Now visitors have the option to enter via the natural entrance or take the elevator. Personally, I recommend the natural entrance if you are able. Doing so allows you to see more geological formations as you slowly descend into the darkness of the cave. Keep in mind, timed-entry tickets are required to enter the cavern regardless of which entrance you choose. It is highly recommended that you purchase these in advance.

Stone path winding into a large cave entrance in rocky terrain. Tan rock walls surround the dark opening, creating a mysterious ambiance. — Natural Entrance

The bat season at Carlsbad Caverns is from late spring to mid-fall. During this time, hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge each night from the Natural Entrance for their insect hunt. There is an amphitheater above the natural entrance for this reason. If you are there this time of year, it is well worth your time to hang around until dusk and experience this.

Stone amphitheater with terraced seating leads to cave entrance. Rugged landscape and cliffs surround, evoking a natural, serene mood. — Amphitheater for watching the bats

Marveling at the Stunning Formations Inside the Caverns

Once inside, the caverns open up into vast chambers filled with spectacular formations. The most famous is the Big Room, one of the largest single cave chambers by volume in North America. It stretches over 4,000 feet long and 625 feet wide, with ceilings reaching 255 feet high in places.

A person with arms outstretched stands on a path inside a vast cavern with illuminated rock formations. Stone textures surround the scene. — The Big Room

Stalactites and stalagmites in a dimly lit cave with textured rock formations, creating a mysterious and serene atmosphere.

Throughout the caverns, you will see a variety of formations such as:

Stalactites hanging from the ceiling like icicles
Stalagmites rising from the floor, sometimes meeting stalactites to form columns
Flowstones that look like frozen waterfalls
Soda straws, delicate hollow tubes that drip water
Helictites, twisting formations that defy gravity
Cave bacon, layered flowstone that looks like colorful, wavy strips of meat.

Each formation tells a story of slow mineral deposits building up over thousands of years. The colors range from pure white to deep browns and reds, depending on the minerals present.

Cave interior with stalagmites and stalactites. Brown and grey rock formations are lit, highlighting details. Dimly lit, mysterious atmosphere.

The pathways inside the caverns are well-maintained and lit to highlight these natural wonders without overwhelming the senses. Rangers and guides often share fascinating facts about the geology and history of the cave, enriching the visit.

Taking the Elevator Back Up

Silver elevator doors with a digital display showing 750 ft below ground.

After exploring the caverns, you have the option to take the elevator back to the surface. This elevator ride is a quick and smooth way to ascend the 750 feet from the cave floor to the visitor center above ground.

The elevator is a welcome relief after the long walk down and through the cave. It also offers a moment to reflect on the incredible underground world you just experienced. The visitor center at the top provides amenities such as restrooms, a gift shop, and a café, perfect for relaxing before heading out. There is also an underground bathroom - how often can you say you used a bathroom 70 stories underground!?!?

Other Places Nearby to Visit

Carlsbad Caverns is located in southeastern New Mexico, an area rich with natural beauty and cultural attractions. If you have extra time, consider visiting these nearby spots:

Guadalupe Mountains National Park: About 30 miles away, this park offers hiking trails through rugged mountains and desert landscapes. The Guadalupe Peak trail leads to the highest point in Texas with stunning views.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park: Located in Carlsbad, this park showcases native desert plants and animals. It’s a great place to learn about the local ecosystem.
Pecos River Flume: A historic irrigation flume near Carlsbad, perfect for a short visit to see early engineering efforts in the region.
Carlsbad Museum and Art Center: For a taste of local history and culture, this museum features exhibits on the area’s geology, archaeology, and art.

These destinations complement a trip to Carlsbad Caverns by offering outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Carlsbad Caverns

A trip to Carlsbad Caverns is one unlike any other. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Carlsbad Caverns not only offers breathtaking views and educational opportunities but also serves as a reminder of the Earth's geological history and the importance of preserving our natural environments. Whether exploring the depths of the caves or enjoying the surrounding landscapes, a visit to Carlsbad Caverns is an unforgettable experience that highlights the wonders of nature.