Cave Core Editors Desk 
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a unique underground adventure with its vast network of limestone caves. Visitors can explore stunning rock formations, witness bat flights, and hike scenic desert trails. The park’s main attractions include guided tours, self-guided explorations, and various above-ground activities. From the iconic Big Room to specialized caving experiences, Carlsbad Caverns provides … Read more
The journey from El Paso to Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a captivating 138-mile drive through diverse landscapes. This road trip offers travelers a unique blend of desert scenery, historic sites, and natural wonders. The route primarily follows US Highway 62/180, taking approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Along the way, … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, centered around its stunning underground cave system. From self-guided tours through vast chambers to ranger-led expeditions into remote caverns, the park provides unique subterranean experiences. Above ground, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stargazing complement the cave explorations, making it a destination for both … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico has specific regulations regarding dogs. While dogs are not permitted inside the caverns or on unpaved trails, they are allowed in certain areas of the park under strict guidelines. The park provides kennel services for visitors who wish to explore areas where dogs are prohibited. This article details … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a significant military discount through the America the Beautiful annual pass program. Active duty military members and their dependents are eligible for a free annual pass, granting entrance to all national parks, including Carlsbad Caverns. This pass covers the entrance fee for the pass holder and up to three accompanying … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns, renowned for its vast cave systems and unique geological formations, lacks a significant aquatic ecosystem supporting fish species. The caverns’ dry environment, with minimal standing water, is not conducive to fish populations. While some small pools and streams exist within the cave system, they are isolated and unsuitable for sustaining fish life. This … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is renowned for its diverse bat population, hosting 17 different species. The Brazilian free-tailed bats are the most numerous, with a peak population of around 400,000. These bats migrate to the caverns in spring and depart in late October. The park offers a unique Bat Flight Program, allowing visitors to witness … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns National Park harbors a diverse array of endangered and threatened species, particularly among its reptile, amphibian, and bat populations. The park’s unique ecosystems, including limestone canyons, Chihuahuan Desert, and riparian areas, provide critical habitats for these vulnerable creatures. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, disease mitigation, and comprehensive species inventories to protect and … Read more
Carlsbad Caverns, renowned for its massive bat population, experiences a significant change during winter. The Brazilian free-tailed bats, the primary species inhabiting the caverns, migrate to Mexico for the colder months. This seasonal exodus leaves the caverns largely devoid of bats from late October until March or April. Understanding this winter pattern is crucial for … Read more
The Carlsbad Caverns bat show is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that occurs annually at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico. From late May to October, visitors can witness thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from the cavern at dusk in a spectacular display of nature. This free program, led by park rangers, offers a … Read more