Carlsbad Caverns National Park enforces strict rules and regulations to protect the delicate cave environment and ensure visitor safety. These include mandatory reservations, specific entry times, prohibited items, and guidelines for cave exploration. Visitors must adhere to clothing requirements, health considerations, and photography restrictions. Understanding these rules is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience at this unique natural wonder.
What Are the Basic Visitor Rules for Carlsbad Caverns?
Reservation and Entry Requirements
- All visitors must make reservations for timed entry
- Reservations available 30 days in advance up to 5 AM on tour day
- $1.00 per person reservation fee (does not include entrance fee)
- Adults (16+) pay $15 entrance fee; children 15 and under free
- Pass holders must also reserve entry time
- Entry allowed within 60-minute window of reservation time
- Last entry at 2:30 PM
Capacity and Wait Times
- Cave capacity limits enforced during peak times
- Long elevator wait times possible, especially on holidays and weekends
What Should Visitors Wear in Carlsbad Caverns?
Clothing and Footwear Guidelines
- Closed-toe shoes with good traction required
- Light jacket or long-sleeved shirt recommended
- Cave temperature: 56°F with 90% humidity year-round
Prohibited Clothing Items
- Sandals and flip-flops not allowed
- Items worn in other caves/mines prohibited (White-Nose Syndrome prevention)
What Items Are Prohibited in the Caverns?
Food and Drink Restrictions
- Only plain water allowed
- No food, candy, tobacco, vaping products, or gum
Equipment Restrictions
- Baby strollers prohibited (baby carriers allowed)
- Recreational walking sticks and hiking poles not permitted
- Tripods, bipods, and monopods banned
Pet Policy
- No pets allowed in cavern (except service dogs)
- Kennel available at visitor center for a fee
- Pets cannot be left unattended in vehicles
What Are the Photography Rules in Carlsbad Caverns?
General Photography Guidelines
- Photography, including flash, allowed
- Tripods, bipods, and monopods prohibited
- Be courteous to other visitors
Special Event Restrictions
- No photography during Bat Flight Program
What Health Considerations Should Visitors Be Aware Of?
Health Advisories
- Cave tours not recommended for people with:
- Heart or respiratory problems
- Back, knee, or walking issues
- Vertigo or claustrophobia
Trail Difficulty
- Natural Entrance Trail: steep, 750-foot elevation change
- Big Room Trail: relatively flat, wheelchair accessible via elevators
What Are the Rules for Guided Tours?
Reservation and Cost
- Reservations required for guided tours (e.g., King’s Palace)
- King’s Palace tour: $8 for adults, $4 for children (4-15 years)
Accessibility
- Check tour details for specific accessibility restrictions
How Can Visitors Prevent the Spread of White-Nose Syndrome?
Prevention Measures
- Do not wear or bring items used in other caves or mines
- Follow all decontamination procedures as instructed by park staff
What Are the Safety Guidelines for Cave Exploration?
Trail Safety
| Trail | Conditions | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Big Room | Relatively flat, can be wet and slippery | Suitable for most visitors, wheelchair accessible |
| Natural Entrance | Steep, 750-foot elevation change | Not recommended for those with health issues |
General Safety Tips
- Stay on designated trails
- Do not touch cave formations
- Report any safety concerns to park staff immediately
By following these rules and regulations, visitors can help preserve Carlsbad Caverns for future generations while enjoying a safe and memorable experience in this extraordinary underground world.
References:
1. https://www.bucketlistpublications.com/2022/02/22/tips-for-visiting-the-carlsbad-caverns/
2. https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/234637
3. https://www.nps.gov/cave/faqs.htm