The best walks and hikes in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Yes, the park has some great options for families. The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail Loop is a paved, accessible 1.4-mile (2.3 km) path near the Visitor Center that's perfect for all ages. It offers a wonderful introduction to the local desert plants.

Pets are not permitted on any of the park's hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in the cavern. They are only allowed in developed areas like parking lots and on the paved road. Service animals are permitted. It's best to leave your dog at home or make arrangements for their care while you explore.

The park offers two distinct hiking experiences.

Surface trails explore the rugged Chihuahuan Desert landscape, with open skies, desert plants like cacti and agave, and views of the Guadalupe Mountains. These are traditional hikes with varied terrain and exposure to the elements.

Cavern trails take you underground into a cool, damp, and dimly lit environment. The main routes, like the Big Room and Natural Entrance trails, are paved but can be steep. Here, you'll see incredible geological formations instead of plants and wildlife.

Preparation is key for a safe desert hike. Always carry plenty of water, at least one gallon (4 liters) per person, per day. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy hiking shoes. Apply sunscreen and be aware of your surroundings, as wildlife like snakes are common. It's best to hike in the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

For those seeking a strenuous challenge, the Slaughter Canyon Cave Trail is a steep and rocky 1.1-mile (1.8 km) round-trip hike. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 500 feet (150 m) and leads to the entrance of Slaughter Canyon Cave, offering expansive views along the way.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of hiking through the Chihuahuan Desert, highlighting the stark beauty of the canyons and the fascinating variety of desert flora. The contrast between the sun-drenched surface trails and the cool, hidden world of the caverns is a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, a free backcountry use permit is required for all overnight trips and for some day-use activities in the backcountry, such as off-trail hiking. You can obtain a permit in person at the visitor center's information desk during operating hours. This is important for your safety and for park resource management.

The Natural Entrance Trail is a 1.25-mile (2 km) paved path that descends steeply into the cavern. It's the equivalent of walking down a 75-story building, with an elevation change of about 750 feet (229 m). While paved, the switchbacks are steep and can be slippery. It offers a dramatic entry into the cavern system, following the path of early explorers.

Yes, the park has loop trails. For a longer, more moderate loop, consider the Upper Rattlesnake Canyon to Guadalupe Ridge Loop. This 6-mile (9.6 km) route takes you through a scenic canyon and then along a ridge with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.

Absolutely. From late spring through October, you can witness hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from the cavern's Natural Entrance at sunset. The park offers a ranger program at the Bat Flight Amphitheater. For the most current times and information, it's best to check the official Bat Flight Program page on the NPS website.

Yes, the Old Guano Trail follows the path of a historic road built in the early 20th century to mine bat guano, which was used as a fertilizer. This moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) out-and-back trail offers a glimpse into the park's industrial past alongside its natural beauty.

The Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center is the main hub for park activities. It's a highly-regarded facility where you can find exhibits on the park's geology and wildlife, a bookstore, and a cafeteria for food and drinks. It's also the starting point for elevator access to the cavern and where you can get information from park rangers.