Explore detailed info of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, or check out our expanded coverage of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park area, including Carlsbad Caverns National Park lodging, recreational activities, and more.
Contact Info
Carlsbad, NM 88220
- Phone:
- 575-785-2232
- Phone:
- 575-785-3012
Basics
- Type:
- Other
Description
As you pass through the Chihuahuan Desert and Guadalupe Mountains of southeastern New Mexico and west Texas—filled with prickly pear, chollas, sotols and agaves—you might never guess there are more than 300 known caves beneath the surface. The park contains 113 of these caves, formed when sulfuric acid dissolved the surrounding limestone, creating some of the largest caves in North America.
Hours + Fees
Hours:
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
EXPANDED (SUMMER) HOURS: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, 8 am to 7 pm. Tours are available 8:30 am to 5 pm. Last entry into cave via natural entrance is 3:30. Last entry into cave via elevator is 5:00.
REGULAR HOURS: After Labor Day until Memorial Day weekend, 8 am to 5 pm. Tours are available 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Last entry into cave via natural entrance is 2:00. Last entry into cave via elevator is 3:30.
Please note: Beginning on the second Sunday in March, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is on Mountain Daylight Saving Time; Mountain Standard Time begins on the first Sunday in November.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Visitors arrive by way of U.S. Highway 62/180 from either Carlsbad, New Mexico (23 miles to the northeast) or El Paso, Texas (150 miles to the west). A scenic 7-mile (11.3 km) entrance road leads from the park gate at Whites City to the visitor center and cavern entrance.
