Ranger-curated one-day highlights itinerary for Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Itinerary
Ranger-curated Carlsbad Caverns day built around timed cave entry and an evening bat flight.
Carlsbad Caverns Visitor Center check-in
Hours: 8:30 AM-2:15 PM >> RESERVATIONS REQUIRED to enter cavern and must be purchased at recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. <<
Reserve timed entry tickets in advance during peak season.
Pick up a cave map and confirm elevator operations.
Natural Entrance Trail (into the caverns)
Enjoy the view of the Natural Entrance from the Bat Flight Amphitheater. This was the only access to Carlsbad Cavern before elevators were installed in the 1930s. To hike into the Natural Entrance, reservations are required and must be purchased online or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk down into the cave via the dramatic natural entrance.
It is humid and cool in the cave; bring a light layer.
Big Room loop
Self-guided loop through massive chambers and formations.
Plan for 1.5-2 hours depending on stops.
Lunch at the underground cafe
Quick refuel before heading back to the surface.
Food options are limited; pack snacks if needed.
Rattlesnake Springs drive
Rattlesnake Springs, part of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, is a lush oasis in the desert. This riparian ecosystem features a natural spring and a large grove of cottonwood trees planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It’s an ideal place for bird watching year round. Rattlesnake Springs is a day use area only, open during daylight hours. It includes a picnic area with shaded picnic tables and cooking grills, trash cans, and pit toilets. Swimming is not allowed in the spring. Accessiblity: Restrooms and picnic table are available.
Desert drive with a lush spring-fed oasis at the end.
Great birding spot in late afternoon light.
Bat Flight program (seasonal)
Enjoy an evening ranger talk about the park's population of Brazilian Free-tailed Bats and experience their emergence from Carlsbad Cavern.
Seasonal evening program at the amphitheater.
No photos or video during the program. Arrive early for seating.
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1
Day
6
Stops
moderate
Difficulty
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