Hiking In The Carlsbad Caverns

Looked at from the outside the Carlsbad Caverns, which are located in New Mexico, are nothing to write home about and consist of a few gray rock formations and a bit of scrub brush covering a less than impressive cliff. But, step inside and this is one of the most incredible landscapes to be found anywhere on Earth and, with over 100 limestone caves to explore, you could wander here for years without seeing the same thing twice.

If you are feint hearted then the Bat Cave is not for you as it is home to of many thousands of these flying mammals. The Bifrost Room will take your breath away and, named after the Bifrost bridge into Valhalla from a Scandinavian myth, the colors truly echo those of the rainbow spectrum of this mythical crossing. The Hall of the Giants, which is the largest open chamber in the system, covers a staggering 360,000 square feet. Within all of these, and the many other rooms, you can find some of Mother Nature's most creative work.

The Witch's Finger, a giant stalagmite, is a corkscrew structure which is over five times the height of the average person and the Rock of Ages is truly impressive as it makes stationary rock seem to move and the numerous flowstone outcroppings resemble a demon's lair glowing from within.

Within the caverns you can opt for self guided or staff guided tours which vary in their degree of difficulty from easy walks through large open spaces to climbing ten foot walls and crawling through narrow openings into large chambers.

One particular takes you through a section of Lechuguilla Cave which, at more than 1,600 feet below ground, is the deepest cave in the United States. The cave covers a total of more than 112 miles as it winds through the Guadalupe Mountains.

If you are not quite so active then you can visit the Big Room by elevator which descends 900 feet and look up and be simply mesmerized by this 25 story high open space. You can then walk around this 1,800 foot by 250 foot room filled with remarkable rock formations. You should also visit the Temple of the Sun and see the dozens of eerily lit pools.

If you do want to see the bats though you must visit between April and September as the 300,000 Mexican free tailed bats fly south for the winter. A half mile hike from the entrance will take you to a plateau from which you can descend the 750 feet into the Bat Cave.

Remember too to pop on your favorite pair of discount hiking boots and explore the area around the caves as there are many fascinating things to do and see. In spite of its name, along Rattlesnake Springs you are far more likely to see dozens of harmless reptiles and birds than you are to encounter the snakes which give this place its name.

Another favorite with visitors to the area is a ride along the 10 mile scenic drive through Walnut Canyon. This drive travels along Guadalupe Ridge and the views along the way are simply stunning.

The Carlsbad Caverns are of course just one of the splendid hiking areas in America and rank alongside such other great pleasures as Yellowstone day hikes.