About
Length1.3 mi
ShapePoint-to-Point
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain750 ft up
Typical time2 hr
TrailheadCarlsbad Caverns Visitor Center
SurfaceSteep paved switchbacks underground, wet in places
Best seasonThe visitor center and cavern are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's days.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityA portion of the Big Room Trail is wheelchair accessible. More information is available in the Accessibility brochure. The Natural Entrance Trail is a steep grade and is not accessible for safety.
What you'll see 🕳️ Cave or arch

The trail switchbacks down through the natural entrance, past the Bat Cave and Devil's Spring, and takes about an hour to reach the Big Room. It is the equivalent of walking down a 75-storey building, and the paving is wet and slick in places.

Tips
Take the lift back up unless you specifically want the climb - going up this trail is genuinely strenuous. Entry reservations are required in advance. The temperature is 56F with high humidity all year, so bring a layer.
Location

Carlsbad Caverns Visitor Center

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