“The Big Room”, located in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Carlsbad Caverns is unlike most National Parks in the United States. Here is what you need to know in order to be prepared for your adventure!
1.) Reservations
Tickets for tours aren’t available at the entrance, so they must be purchased online 48 hours in advance. This self-guided tour has options of hiking or taking an elevator. In order to get the complete experience, we recommend walking the 2.5 miles down, then riding the elevator back up!
2.) Gas
On the drive into the nearby town of White’s City, there were no gas stations for about 2 hours. Make sure to plan accordingly with a full tank!
3.) Be Prepared
In order to keep the cave system undisturbed, food, gum, candy, vaping, and cigarettes are prohibited. Bathrooms are only available at the bottom of the cave. Bonus points for bringing a blacklight to see the Calcite glow!
4.) Weather
The inside of the caverns has a year-round temperature of 56 degrees with 90% humidity. The temperature varies throughout the cave due to its natural cycle of air. Be sure to bring a jacket for those cool breezes!
5.) Bat Flight Program
Late May through October, this informational ranger lead program showcases bat migration patterns. Sit in the amphitheater and watch the bats swarm out of the cave entrance. No reservation or fee is required!
