Beyond the Guadalupe Mountains in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to more than one hundred caves deep beneath the ground’s surface, with Carlsbad Cavern as the primary attraction. At one time, the cavern boasted the largest natural cave chamber in the world, also famously known as the ‘Big Room’. While it no longer possesses that title, visitors from all over the world continue to flock to this enchanting cave, seeking to be captivated by its decorative limestones and intrinsic geology. The cavern can be explored by two self-guided tours, either by an elevator that descends over 754 feet into the ‘Big Room’, or the National Entrance Trail, a steep exhausting hike down 80 stories that gives you the opportunity to admire intricate rock forms while testing your physical endurance. There are several ranger guided tours available for other caves, including King’s Palace, Left Hand Tunnel and Hall of the White Giant. From late-May through October, you can enjoy a bat-watching display that occurs every evening.

After a long span of being enveloped by the underground darkness, enjoy a breath of fresh air with a breezy walk through the Desert Loop Drive or observe the flora and fauna at the serene Rattlesnake Springs, located within the park. While camping is not allowed within the premises, there are picnic spots where you can have a relaxing layover, so do come prepared to spend an entire day at the national park!