Each year 550,000 visitors descend on Carlsbad to wander in awe through the famed subterranean wonderland of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Three miles of lighted and paved trails take visitors into the heart of the Capitan reef. Subtle lighting illuminates unique formations in the cavernous walls.
Simple markers identify major formations.
Wayside exhibits explain the history, formation, and development of the cavern. Much of the main cave tour is self-guided. We're explorers, wending our way to the center of the earth. We imagine the cave's first explorer, Jim White, descending by rope, home-made kerosene lantern in hand. We wonder how, without this trail, without these lights, he managed to find his way out safely.