Curator’s statement
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, this has your name written all over it! Visit this gem in New Mexico along the Texas border to marvel at a huge cave system vastly different from any of the other national park’s caves.
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Carlsbad Caverns
Having been to many national parks, I find the one thing that is limited is parking at many of them. Carlsbad Caverns NP had ample parking, even when we were there at a peak time. This was also one of the national parks that I’ve seen the most wildlife at! My favorite were big horn sheep–we got to see a herd and its babies!
Entrance to the caverns
I have been to Wind Cave and Mammoth Cave national parks and I think that Carlsbad Caverns was my favorite of the three. At the entrance of the cave, bats and birds swirl, welcoming you into their domain. The hike down is stunning. I couldn’t believe the variety of rock formations and how it felt like we were going to the center of the earth. It is steep, but you can go at your own pace and there are many benches dotted along the route to take breaks on. At the bottom is the grand room, which has another trail to take if you’re interested, with other notable rock formations. Thankfully, if you aren’t up for the hike back out, there is an elevator that will take you to the surface!
Food in Carlsbad
Carlsbad the town is quaint, with the majority of the emphasis on places to lodge for the national parks close by. We found several places to eat that we loved! The breakfast spot is called Bluehouse Bakery and Cafe. It’s a popular local spot with breakfast and lunch options. If you’re looking for a place to have a good breakfast and enjoy either the AC or a covered patio, this is the stop. The two places that we enjoyed the most for dinner were YellowBrix and El Nopal. Both have outdoor seating, with El Nopal being a part of a block of permanent food trucks–they only have outdoor seating.
Breakfast in Carlsbad
Rocks in the caverns
Need to know
Just north of Carlsbad is Artesia, which has several other options for activities. Since you’re so close, stop by Guadalupe Mountain National Park too! This is primarily for hiking, as most of the park is not paved.
For more travel inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our New Mexico page.
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Ellen Reinhold
Ellen Reinhold
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