Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Although Carlsbad Caverns does not quite have the same extensive network of passageways and sub-caverns found in Mammoth Cave, it is justly noted for its enormous chambers and unusual beauty. You enter the caverns through a massive archway that reaches 90 feet across and 40 feet high at its greatest point. Inside, you will enter another world, one of beautiful and sometimes delicate formations. Often, these features are surprisingly alive with color. Some 200 million years of earth’s history are contained within the cavern. Some people who visit put the wonders of the cave itself in a position of only secondary importance. They come to visit the cave’s famous residents – a huge population of bats. These strange creatures emerge from the cave on summer evenings in a spectacular display that defies description. The bats and the caves combine to makes Carlsbad Caverns a unique destination. This eTrail explains in detail how to tour the park. In addition to a park map the details include driving tours, outdoor recreation, accommodations, campgrounds, dining, and more.