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Due to construction in the park, the Natural Entrance trail will be closed on Wednesday, August 26 and Thursday, August 27. Elevators will be the only way to enter and exit the cavern. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for understanding.
Information
Temporary Phone Number — (575) 243-2914
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We are currently experiencing an extended phone service outage affecting our main park phone lines. If you have questions or need assistance, please call (575) 243-2914 to speak with a staff member. This temporary phone line is available daily between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Mountain Time). If we are helping another visitor, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to restore normal phone service.
Information
Fire Restrictions
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Fire restrictions have been lifted at Carlsbad Caverns which means that fires such as charcoal fires in grills and the use of camp stoves or portable grills will be allowed. Igniting and maintaining an open fire must be done with materials that are commonly used for warmth and food preparations such as natural firewood or charcoal briquettes. Other materials such as flammable liquids, garbage, plastic, aerosol canisters, or other artificial substances are not permitted.
Information
Closures Due to Flood Damage
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Some areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive and some trails remain closed after extensive flood damage. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.
A disease known as White-Nose Syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading to our bats, do not wear shoes, clothing, or bring any gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park that were in another cave.
Timed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern
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Reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased by clicking "more" or calling 877-444-6777. Reservations only select the entry time. Upon arrival at the visitor center, an entrance pass must be purchased.
For safety, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended. Flip flops, sandals, and some walking shoes have little or no traction and increase the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. Watch your step and use the handrails when necessary.
About this activity
Enjoy views of the Guadalupe Mountains and explore Chihuahuan Desert plant life along this short 0.7 mile (1.1 km) loop trail.
Labels along this 0.7 mile (1.1 km) nature trail loop provide information on plants found along this route. The upper section of this trail is wheelchair accessible and leadsd 0.2 mile (0.3 km) to a viewpoint with a shade shelter.
A varity of desert plants can be found along this trail. Mule deer occasionally graze in this area.
Activity details
Location
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail
The trailhead is located past the visitor center at the far end of the east parking lot.
Duration
30 Minutes
This easy hike takes about 30 minutes with an elevation gain of 100 feet (30.4m).
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Time of day
Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk
The trail is closed at dusk and night in the late spring, summer, and early fall to not disturb the bats as they emerge from Carlsbad Cavern. Check at the visitor center for more information.
Pets
Yes
Pets are permitted on the paved section of this trail and must be on a leash at all times.
Fees
No
Accessibility
The upper section of the trail is accessible for 0.2 mile (0.3 km).
Things To Buy
Recommended gear for Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail
No additional access requirement details are available from the provider.
Official website
Official access information supplied by the provider for this activity. Requirements and availability may change, so always verify the latest details on the official website.
National Parks Explorer strives to present accurate and up-to-date information collected from official and trusted sources, including the National Park Service. While we make every effort to keep this information current, information may be incomplete, inaccurate, outdated or subject to change without prior notice, including access requirements, permits, reservations, operating hours, alerts, fees, road and trail conditions, weather and other visitor information.
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Always verify the latest information with the relevant official source before making travel plans, reservations, purchases or visiting a park.
National Parks Explorer is an independent information platform provided through national-parks-usa.com and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Park Service or other data providers. All information is provided for general informational and planning purposes only and is used entirely at your own risk. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, National Parks Explorer and national-parks-usa.com cannot be held responsible or liable for any loss, damage, injury, inconvenience, missed reservation, travel disruption, financial loss, additional expense or other costs resulting from the use of, or reliance upon, information provided through this website.
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