Geography
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in in the Guadalupe Mountains of southern New Mexico along the Texas border. It is situated about 20 miles west of the Pecos River, which flows through Carlsbad (formerly Eddy), New Mexico, 25 miles northeast.
Rattlesnake Springs, a detached unit of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, was acquired by the National Park Service in 1934 for the primary purpose of ensuring a reliable domestic water supply for cavern area development. This oasis is bounded by the gently rolling Chihuahuan Desert plains dotted with desert scrub such as creosote bush, yucca, mesquite, and snakewood. These plains are framed by the magnificent backdrop of the Guadalupe escarpment.
Climate
Carlsbad Cavern National Park park is characterized by its relatively high elevations, cool dry winters and hot wet summers. Below ground, the cave climate is cool and varies little from the annual 56° F average. A light jacket or sweater, and comfortable shoes with rubber soles for good traction are appropriate year-round.
Getting There
By Auto
Visitors arrive by way of U.S. Highway 62-180 from either Carlsbad, New Mexico (25 miles to the northeast) or El Paso, Texas (150 miles to the west). A scenic 7-mile entrance road leads from the park gate at Whites City to the Visitor Center and cavern entrance.
Public Transportation
Carlsbad is served by Greyhound and TNM bus lines. Mesa Airlines offers passenger service between Carlsbad and Albuquerque. Major airlines serve Albuquerque, El Paso, and Midland TX. Rental cars and taxi service are available from the airport at Carlsbad.
