Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Show Caves

Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad, United States

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST SHOW CAVES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 12 2026
Carlsbad Caverns

Large limestone cave with a huge main chamber, the Big Room, full of formations along dim, lit paved trails. Visitors walk down the steep Natural Entrance trail or take the elevator, then explore self-guided at their own pace.

Highlights

  • Big Room trail
  • Natural Entrance descent
  • Evening bat flight program

Good to know

  • Inside stays cool, about 54-56°F
  • Reserve an entry time slot online
  • Natural Entrance walk is steep, about one hour

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