If you’re looking to hike up to the Natural Entrance or down from it, be sure to check out our hiking trails guide first. You can also take a walking tour of the park if you have time.
Remember that proper shoes and clothing are essential for safe hiking – make sure to pack plenty of layers. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave any valuables unsecured on your hike – theft is unfortunately common in parks like this one. And last but not least, remember to enjoy the natural beauty while you’re here.

How Far Down Is Carlsbad Cavern?
Head to the hiking trailhead, located at . After reaching the summit of Natural Entrance, hikers will descend back down to their cars by walking in a counter-clockwise direction for an estimated distance of .
The hike from the entrance all the way up takes about four hours with moderate elevation gain and loss, so be prepared for a sweaty workout. When returning home after your trekking adventure head back down Highway 1 until you reach which is directly across from where you parked your car when heading into Yosemite Valley earlier on in your visit.
Drive straight through this intersection and drive past Curry Village before turning left onto Wawona Road (Forest Service Road 41). Follow this winding road as it twists and turns its way downhill towards El Portal Rd., where you’ll eventually turn right onto CA 439 South (East Foothill Blvd.). From here it’s just a short walk (~0) back down to Highway 140, where you started driving up.
How far down is Carlsbad Caverns elevator?
The Carlsbad Caverns elevator shaft is one of a kind, descending 754 feet underground without any stops along the way. It’s an interesting experience to ride in this unique elevator, and it’s also great for those with claustrophobia since there are no windows on the inside.
Visitors can buy tickets online or at the visitor center before arriving, and children under 12 years old ride free with a paying adult. Because Carlsbad Caverns is so deep down, you’ll need some good walking shoes to make the trip up and down. If you’re looking for something unusual to do while in Carlsbad Caverns, be sure to check out their amazing elevator system.
How many floors down is Carlsbad Caverns?
The Natural Entrance Trail is a steep 1-1/4 mile (2 km) descent, equivalent to about 79 stories, from the Natural Entrance to the Big Room. This trail can be accessed by descending either the steps or an elevator located on the first floor of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters near Highway 62 in Carlsbad Village.
Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water as well as snacks and sunscreen because it can get quite hot down there. Be sure not to miss out on some of our favorite attractions such as El Capitan, Indian Cave, Queen’s Bathtub and more while you’re visiting us.
How deep is the big Carlsbad Caverns?
The Big Room at Carlsbad Caverns is the attraction that everyone comes to see. Despite being 800 feet underground, this cave hike is anything but claustrophobic.
This room is also one of the largest in North America with ceilings up to 300 feet high. If you’re looking for a challenging cave hike, then be sure to check out the Big Room at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
It’s best to visit during spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and there isn’t as much tourist traffic. Make sure you have all your hiking gear with you before setting out on this adventure – it can get pretty dusty down in the caves.
What is at the bottom of Carlsbad Caverns?
The bottom of Carlsbad Caverns has a quick-serve restaurant, gift shop, and Visitor Center with museum exhibits and clean restrooms above ground. They also have a snack bar and lunchroom, souvenir stand, and restrooms at the bottom of the main cavern area 750 feet underground.
This is different than other caves and caverns because they don’t just offer visitors an opportunity to explore their vast surroundings; they also have food options available for those who want something more substantial while in the cave. If you’re looking for a cave adventure that will leave you hungry but satisfied, be sure to visit Carlsbad Caverns.
No matter what time of year you go, there’s always something new to see at Carlsbad Caverns – so make your reservation today.
How deep is the bottomless pit in Carlsbad Caverns?
The “Bottomless Pit” at Carlsbad Caverns National Park does, in fact, have a bottom- though it’s a bit of an odd mission to make the descent. At approximately 140 ft (43m) deep, the pit can be treacherous to descend on foot.
The cavers made their descent as part of a larger mission-to document and study the cave system more thoroughly. If you’re interested in exploring Carlsbad Caverns, keep an eye out for future exploration missions that might include this unusual feature.
For now, enjoy descending into the depths of this intriguing cavern system.
How long does it take to go through Carlsbad Cavern?
The most popular route, the Big Room, is the largest single cave chamber by volume in North America. This 1.25 mile (2 km) trail is relatively flat and will take about 1.5 hours on average to walk it.
Other routes include the Little Room and Crystal Grotto which are also popular for their unique features and scenic views. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes since there are some steep sections along the way that may require a bit of climbing ability.
Bring plenty of water and snacks because you won’t want to get too hungry or thirsty while exploring Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Don’t forget your camera – this is one of those places where photos just don’t do it justice.
Is there an elevator in Carlsbad Caverns?
Yes, Carlsbad Caverns has an elevator that can take you inside the caves for a visit. The only way to access the cavern’s wheelchair-friendly trails is by taking advantage of the elevator.
If you’re looking to explore all of Carlsbad Caverns’ secrets, be sure to take the time to ride in on the lift. There are several entrances and exits throughout the park so finding one that works best for your schedule is easy peasy.
Be sure to check out our blog post about some interesting facts about this amazing natural wonder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does anything live in Carlsbad Caverns?
No live things are found in Carlsbad Caverns at this time.
What is the largest cave in the US?
Mammoth Cave National Park contains more than 400 miles of caves. These include some of the most significant and awe-inspiring cave systems in the United States.
How deep is the deepest cave on Earth?
The Hranice Abyss is located in a limestone formation in the Czech Republic. At 6,800 feet deep, it’s the deepest known cave on Earth.
Where is the biggest cavern in the world?
Join photojournalist Martin Edström, as he photographs The Son Doong Cave in 360 degrees. This cave is located in Vietnam and measures about 30 kilometers long by 5 kilometers wide at its widest point.
Has Carlsbad Caverns been fully explored?
The Carlsbad Caverns have not been fully explored. As a result, there is still much to discover about this fascinating cave system.
To Recap
Carlsbad Cavern is located about 60 miles east of Carlsbad, New Mexico. The cave is open to the public and features tours that take visitors through many of its chambers.
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