Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Hours, Fees & Things to Do

Alerts
Plan
Things to Do
Directions
FAQ

More than 119 caves can be found below the surface of Carlsbad Caverns - ones that were formed eons ago when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone and left behind caverns of all sizes. And don't forget, above ground you'll find ancient sea-ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and desert wildlife.

At a glance

Entrance $1

Alerts 5 active

Current Park Alerts

Information: Fire Restrictions

Fire restrictions have been lifted at Carlsbad Caverns which means that fires such as charcoal fires in grills and the use of camp stoves or portable grills will be allowed. Igniting and maintaining an open fire must be done with materials that are commonly used for warmth and food preparations such as natural firewood or charcoal briquettes. Other materials such as flammable liquids, garbage, plastic, aerosol canisters, or other artificial substances are not permitted.

Information: Closures Due to Flood Damage

Some areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive and some trails remain closed after extensive flood damage. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.

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Information: Items Worn or Used in Other Caves Not Allowed

A disease known as White-Nose Syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading to our bats, do not wear shoes, clothing, or bring any gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park that were in another cave.

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Information: Timed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern

Reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased by clicking "more" or calling 877-444-6777. Reservations only select the entry time. Upon arrival at the visitor center, an entrance pass must be purchased.

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Information: Footwear in the Cavern

For safety, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended. Flip flops, sandals, and some walking shoes have little or no traction and increase the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. Watch your step and use the handrails when necessary.

Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →

Plan Your Visit

Hours & Season

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open 24-hours a day. Visitor center hours and cave tour schedule vary throughout the year.

Entrance Fees

$1 – Timed Entry Reservation - Location
$15 – Entrance - Per Person

Weather

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in southeast New Mexico. Summers are hot with temperatures between 90°F (32°C) and low 100s °F (38°C). Windy conditions and mild temperatures are common in early spring (March-May) with frequent rain in early fall (August-September). This part of the country also sees cold temperatures in the winter with occasional snow and icy conditions. Most days, the park is enveloped by a gorgeous blue sky with very few clouds, 278 sunny days a year!

Things to Do

Lower Cave Tour

Reservation required

In 1924, National Geographic expedition members wrote about the wonders of Lower Cave. Visitors today can see the evidence left behind from those and other explorers.

King's Palace Tour

Reservation required

The King's Palace Tour takes visitors through four highly decorated chambers and the deepest portion of the cavern open to the public.

Walnut Canyon Desert Drive

Discover canyon views, desert plants, and wildlife along this unpaved road.

Guadalupe Ridge Trail (GRT)

Reservation required

This trail covers 100 miles (161 km) through Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Lincoln National Forest, Bureau of Land Management, and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Over 20 miles (32 km) of this trail is within Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area

Have a relaxing picnic among tall cottonwood trees and watch for a variety of birds.

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail

Enjoy views of the Guadalupe Mountains and explore Chihuahuan Desert plant life along this short 0.7 mile (1.1 km) loop trail.

Getting There

Address: 727 Carlsbad Caverns Highway Carlsbad NM 88220

To access the park's only entrance road, New Mexico Highway 7, turn north from US Hwy 62/180 at White's City, NM, which is 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Carlsbad, NM and 145 miles (233 km) northeast of El Paso, TX. The entrance road stretches a scenic seven miles (11.3 km) from the park gate at White's City to the visitor center and cavern entrance. The address for the park's visitor center is 727 Carlsbad Caverns Hwy, Carlsbad, NM, 88220, located 27 miles (43 km) from the town of Carlsbad.

Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to enter Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

The entrance fee for Carlsbad Caverns National Park is $1. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.

Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

Some entry windows or activities at Carlsbad Caverns National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.

When is Carlsbad Caverns National Park open?

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open 24-hours a day. Visitor center hours and cave tour schedule vary throughout the year.

What are the best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

Popular things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park include Lower Cave Tour, King's Palace Tour, Walnut Canyon Desert Drive, Guadalupe Ridge Trail (GRT). See Things to Do above for photos and details.