Visiting Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns, located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, was designated as a National Monument in 1923. In 1930, the caverns were officially recognized as a National Park and as a World Heritage Site in 1995. There are numerous caves within the Carlsbad Park. The area contains 83 individual caves and Carlsbad Caverns is known as one the world’s largest underground chambers. Carlsbad Caverns is accessible to visitors all year long.
Carlsbad Caverns is the result of 250 million years of erosion and ground uplift. A reef in this area formed from the remains of sponges, algae and shells. When cracks began to form in the reef, it grew upwards. When the sea evaporated, the reef was buried under salts and gypsums. Later, as the uplift and erosion began to uncover the reef, rainwater seeped into the cracks. This caused the limestone to dissolve and allowed underground chambers to form.
The stalactites and stalagmites that are seen inside the caverns were formed very slowly with each drop of water seeping down into the caves. As carbon dioxide entered the caves, the calcite dissolved and the drops were deposited into tiny mineral crystals of calcite. In places where the water dripped over thousands of years, beautiful and breathtaking formations began to take shape.
Even if you do not completely understand the science behind Carlsbad Caverns, you can still visit and enjoy the immense beauty. When you visit the caverns, you have the option of taking one of two tours. One is called the Big Room Route and the other is the Natural Entrance Route.
The Big Room Route is a one-mile; self-guided tour though the caverns. For those who have limited stamina, or limited time for touring, this option is usually recommended. Children can easily navigate this route without too much difficulty. In addition, this route is wheelchair accessible in most areas. This tour through the caverns starts off with an elevator ride to the entrance of the caverns. Visitors can take their time looking at the perimeter of the largest room in the caverns, call the Big Room. This route passes some of the largest formations including Rock of Ages, Painted Grotto, Bottomless Pit and the Giant Dome. The Big Room covers four acres and is the path is well lit.
The other entrance to the caverns is called the Natural Entrance Route. This path is more walking-intensive and is recommend for those who have no time limit and have no difficulties walking a long distance. This route is also one mile and is self guided. Visitors are led down the traditional path of the original explorers to the cave. The path follows a 750 feet descent on steep and narrow trails leading to the Main Corridor and ends in the Big Room. Visitors will see Bat Cave, Iceberg Rock and Devil’s Spring.
When visiting the caverns it is important to remember that it is completely underground. This means it can get chilly so bring a lightweight jacket to wear inside the caverns. Also, wear good walking shoes. Children should do well and the dark caverns do not intimidate most. There are several benches along the paths to stop and rest. The caverns also have a restroom and a snack bar near the entrance.
There are many other caverns to explore when visiting Carlsbad Caverns. Check with the caverns website for more information on these trails and hikes. In addition, there are many educational opportunities available at the caverns. Prices are $6 for adults over the age of 16, $3.00 for children ages 6-15 and free for children under the age of 5.
