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Carlsbad Caverns NP, New Mexico
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Despite its name, the Bottomless Pit is actually 140 feet deep, but its depth was a mystery to early explorers.
Every summer evening, thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats exit the cave in a spectacular flight to hunt for insects.
In 1898, 16-year-old Jim White discovered the caverns and later became its first advocate and guide.
The Big Room is a natural limestone chamber that spans 8.2 acres, making it the largest in the Western Hemisphere.
Around 250 million years ago, the area was covered by an inland sea, which contributed to the formation of the caverns.
There are over 119 known caves within the park, with Carlsbad Cavern being the most famous.
In 1995, the caverns were recognized for their outstanding natural beauty and geological significance.
The caverns feature stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations like the 'Rock of Ages' and 'Temple of the Sun.'
Artifacts suggest that Native Americans explored the caves long before European settlers arrived.
