The National Park Service preserves the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and …
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5.0/5 · 1,826 reviews
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Feb 12, 2025
We did not enter the cave from the natural entrance. We took the elevator down. There was no lines and not a lot of people in the cave. The cavern tour was much different than others we have done,…Full review by F5526FYashleyb
Feb 11, 2025
A very neat self-guided hike through the Carlsbad cave. We went with our 60 year old Mom & two young kids. Everyone was able to do the hike with no problem. The trail is paved throughout. Use the was…Full review by Ashley P
Jan 1, 2025
Carlsbad Caverns is a place that must be seen to be appreciated. While the Big Room is the main attraction at Carlsbad and can be accessed quickly via elevator, the Natural Entrance is equally stagge…Full review by Brend482
If I take the elevator down to the Big Room (vs taking the Natural Entrance Trail), is there anything that I would miss by having taken the elevator? I have 4 kids (ages 1 in a carrier, 3, 5 and 7) but they are well traveled and have hiked 4+ miles through other caves like Mammoth Caves. I would consider taking the kids down the Natural Entrance Trail but if it's just cave walls (vs formations etc) we may just skip and take the elevator down. Not really concerned about darkness and the kids scared of the cave environment.
A:
The Natural Entrance was really cool to walk down and through. There are a good number of formations that are well lit, and you think are really neat, but then you get into the main cavern …
The Natural Entrance was really cool to walk down and through. There are a good number of formations that are well lit, and you think are really neat, but then you get into the main cavern and appreciate just how awesome it is! I'd recommend walking down the trail, and then taking the elevator back out - but be prepared for long lines.
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Frequently asked questions
Q:
When is the park open and how much does it cost?
A:
The park is open every day, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's days, weather and road conditions permitting. Purchase cavern tickets at the ticket counter...
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