Christmas in the Caverns

Posted on January 13, 2023 by Liam & Amber

On a quiet Friday afternoon we took off towards New Mexico. The destination? A little city located within the Chihuahuan Desert. Home to over 119 natural underground caves, CarlsBad Caverns became a national park in 1930.

The drive in from Arizona was beautiful. We drove through vast desert and windy mountains while passing through the various cities along the way. Desert sunsets are unmatched and we were able to witness that beauty soon after leaving.

Advertisements

Night one we had originally planned to camp at The Sunset Reef Disbursed Campground, however, at 2am in the dark desert, things don’t usually go to plan. After driving around lost for another hour we then backtracked an additional 45 minutes to The Chosa disbursed Campground at the entrance of the city. The other travelers were quiet and respectful and the view surrounding us was peaceful.

The next morning, when we woke up (fashionably late) we took off towards the caverns. For those anticipating their visit, please keep in mind fairly priced reservations are required. At the time we visited, it was $2 a person. There are just over four miles of interconnecting trails in the caverns taking you 754 feet underground. The trails are well lit and respectful inside voices are encouraged. If you’re tired after the steep hike down, you’re welcomed to take the elevators back to the national park gift shop. You can also take the elevators down if you’re pressed for time. Keep in mind, food and drink are only allowed at the underground gift shop, conveniently located right next to those elevators.

If you’re into stalactites and their counterparts, this cave system has no shortage.

Following our visit we stayed in a cute little cabin at the Carlsbad RV Park. Their heated pool and freshly redone bathrooms were a welcome treat for us car and tent campers. The staff were incredibly helpful and I would recommend the location to anyone looking for a peaceful nights rest.

We spent Christmas Day wandering around the Pecos river and enjoying our time away from our normal daily lives. The next day we were off again, driving through Roswell, NM, famous for their alleged 1947 UFO crash. Our next stop? White Sands National Park!