Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance was added to Your Favorites!
Carlsbad Caverns NP, New Mexico
Claim this place to tell your story your way.
The natural entrance of Carlsbad Cavern is a steep, 1.25-mile trail that descends 750 feet into the cavern, offering visitors a dramatic introduction to the underground world.
Every summer evening, thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from the cavern's entrance in a spectacular flight, a natural phenomenon that attracts many visitors.
The cavern was created by sulfuric acid dissolving limestone, a process that began around 250 million years ago.
The Big Room is the largest chamber in North America, spanning 8.2 acres and featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Jim White, a 16-year-old cowboy, is credited with discovering the cavern in 1898 after noticing a strange cloud of bats emerging from the ground.
Designated in 1995, the site is recognized for its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance.
Visitors can explore various parts of the cavern with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into its history and geology.
The cavern supports a variety of life forms, including rare cave-adapted species that thrive in its dark, humid environment.
The cavern maintains a steady temperature of about 56 degrees Fahrenheit, regardless of the weather outside.
