Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located in southeastern New Mexico, offers visitors a unique underground experience. The park’s main attraction, Carlsbad Cavern, features stunning limestone formations and a vast network of chambers. Entry to the caverns requires careful planning, as there are specific fees, schedules, and restrictions in place. This guide provides essential information on entry fees, tour options, age restrictions, and reservation details to help you plan your visit to this natural wonder.
What Are the Current Entry Fees and Ticket Options?
Understanding the fee structure is crucial for planning your visit to Carlsbad Caverns. Here’s a breakdown of the current entry fees and ticket options:
Basic Entrance Fee
- Adults (16 and older): $15
- Children (15 and under): Free
Self-Guided Tour
- Timed entry reservation: $1 per person (required for all visitors, including children)
Guided Tours
- King’s Palace Tour
- Adults: $8
- Children (6-15): $4
- Children (4-5): Free with an adult
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Children under 4: Not permitted
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Left Hand Tunnel Tour
- Adults: $7
- Children (6-15): $3.50
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Children under 6: Not permitted
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Spider Cave, Lower Cave, and Hall of the White Giant Tours
- Adults: $20
- Youths (12-15): $10
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Children under 12: Not permitted
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Slaughter Canyon Cave Tour
- Adults: $15
- Children (6-15): $7.50
- Children under 6: Not permitted
What Are the Entry Schedules and Seasonal Variations?
The operating hours of Carlsbad Caverns vary depending on the season. Here’s what you need to know:
Visitor Center Hours
- Memorial Day to Labor Day: 8am to 7pm
- Rest of the year: 8am to 5pm
Self-Guided Cave Tours
- Memorial Day to Labor Day: Tours start from 8:30am to 5pm
- Rest of the year: Tours start from 8:30am to 3:30pm
Last Entry Time
- The last entry for both the Natural Entrance Trail and the elevator is at 2:30pm daily
Elevator Hours
- Entrance into the cavern: 8:30am to 2:30pm
- Exit from the cavern: Until 4:45pm
What Are the Age Restrictions for Different Tours?
Age restrictions vary depending on the type of tour you choose:
- Self-Guided Tours: No age restrictions
- King’s Palace Tour: Children under 4 not permitted
- Left Hand Tunnel Tour: Children under 6 not permitted
- Spider Cave, Lower Cave, and Hall of the White Giant Tours: Children under 12 not permitted
- Slaughter Canyon Cave Tour: Children under 6 not permitted
How Does the Reservation System Work?
To ensure a smooth entry process, Carlsbad Caverns has implemented a reservation system:
- A timed entry reservation is required for all visitors, including children
- Reservations cost $1 per person
- Can be made online or by calling (877) 444-6777
- Available up to 3 months in advance
- Must be made by 5am MT on the day of the tour if available
- Pass holders (e.g., America the Beautiful Pass, Senior Pass) must also reserve an entry time for all group members
- No refunds available for self-guided tour reservations
What Should You Know Before Your Visit?
To make the most of your Carlsbad Caverns entry, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive early, especially during peak season (summer months)
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction
- Bring a light jacket, as the cave temperature remains around 56°F (13°C) year-round
- Carry water, but note that food and drinks (except water) are not allowed in the cavern
- Photography is permitted, but tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited
- Respect the cave environment by not touching formations or leaving any trash behind
What Are the Different Entry Routes to Explore Carlsbad Caverns?
Visitors have two main options for entering Carlsbad Caverns:
- Natural Entrance Route
- A steep 1.25-mile trail that descends 750 feet into the cave
- Offers a more adventurous and scenic entry
- Takes about an hour to complete
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Not recommended for those with mobility issues or heart conditions
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Elevator Route
- Quick and easy access to the Big Room
- Descends 754 feet in less than a minute
- Ideal for those with limited time or mobility concerns
How Can You Enhance Your Carlsbad Caverns Experience?
To make your visit more memorable, consider these options:
- Attend a ranger-led program to learn about the cave’s geology and history
- Visit during the Bat Flight Program (late May to October) to witness thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats exiting the cave at dusk
- Explore the park’s aboveground trails for scenic desert views
- Visit the nearby Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park to learn about local flora and fauna
- Combine your trip with a visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, just 30 miles away
By understanding the entry requirements, fees, and options available at Carlsbad Caverns, you can plan a successful and enjoyable visit to this underground wonderland. Whether you choose a self-guided tour or opt for a more adventurous guided experience, the caverns offer a unique opportunity to explore one of nature’s most impressive subterranean landscapes.
References:
1. Frommer’s Travel Guides: Planning a Trip in Carlsbad Caverns
2. Recreation.gov: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Tours
3. National-Park.com: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Tickets Price