Tucked away in the heart of New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With its breathtaking limestone formations, expansive chambers, and winding passageways, this underground wonder is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
If Carlsbad Caverns has been calling your name and you’re thinking about flying, here are a couple of travel tips to help you get there. For us, flying out of Atlanta, GA,the two best options are flying into El Paso, TX, which is about a 2-hour and 45-minute drive to the caverns, or Albuquerque, NM, with a slightly longer drive of around 4 hours and 20 minutes. Either way, the journey is all part of the adventure and a perfect 2-day itinerary for Carlsbad and Alamogordo.
Effortless Budget-friendly tips for Your 48-hour Escape
Who says you can’t have an amazing getaway on a budget? With a little planning, your 48-hour adventure can be packed with excitement and savings. First, consider getting a National Park Pass for free or discounted access to multiple parks, a great deal if you’re visiting more than one spot!
For accommodations, think cozy motels or campgrounds near Carlsbad or Alamogordo. These options often come with fantastic amenities without the hefty price tag.
Bring along snacks and a cooler with your favorite essentials to skip those pricey convenience store stops. Free activities like scenic trails in Lincoln National Forest or the fascinating visitor center exhibits are perfect for stretching your travel dollars. When it comes to meals, local diners or food trucks are the way to go, delicious, authentic, and budget-friendly.
To save on fuel, plan your itinerary to group nearby activities, cutting down on driving time. If you’re looking to splurge a little, watch for deals on guided tours, they’re often worth it for the extra insight and fun. And don’t forget, traveling during the off-peak season can mean lower accommodation rates and a more relaxed vibe.
Finally, check out free ranger programs and educational events at the parks. They’re not only informative but also a fantastic way to make your visit even more memorable.
The Journey to Carlsbad Caverns: What to Expect
Whichever route you choose, there’s plenty to see on your way to the National Park. Since we wanted to explore a little more than just the caverns, our adventure started at the very welcoming El Paso International (EPI) airport.
Before leaving town, make sure your gas tank is full, and your snack stash is loaded. Once you drive a few minutes past El Paso, with the city in your rear view mirror, it’s just you, the desert, and the stunning 121-mile journey to Carlsbad Caverns.
As you travel down the straight, two-lane highway of US 180, you’ll pass vibrant high desert flowers and mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll also encounter a small town called Serena, NM, home to a U.S. Customs Checkpoint.
Wait!!! What?!
Don’t worry—everyone has to stop! The checkpoint is a quick pass-through where you’ll roll down your window, exchange a friendly wave, and be back on your way in no time. They’re just making sure no one’s smuggling…well, aliens. After all, this is New Mexico! Ha!
This two-ish hour drive offers plenty to see, including the shimmering Salt Flats that run parallel to the highway, with the dramatic Guadalupe Mountains National Park as a breathtaking backdrop.
We set out to make the most of our 48-hour escape. Our goal? To experience the natural wonders beneath the surface, capturing the beauty of this hidden gem. Every step offered a new perspective, from towering stalagmites to the thrill of exploring 250-million-year-old caverns 750 feet underground. Sounds like an adventure, right?
Carlsbad Caverns – Essential Tips for an Epic Visit
Speaking of adventure, be sure to book an arrival time before you head to the cavern—it’s required. You can reserve your spot online at Recreation.gov. Simply select the date and time you plan to arrive.
This is a self-guided tour, and while the caverns are open until 5 PM, the ticket counter closes promptly at 2:30 PM (they’ll make multiple announcements). The reservation fee is just $1.00 per person, plus the Park Entrance fee of $15.00 for adults. Always check their website for current prices.
Wearing comfortable, flat shoes like sneakers will be your feet’s best friend. And don’t forget a light jacket—the caverns maintain a cool average temperature of 56 degrees. Feel free to bring a water bottle, backpack, camera, and even a small flashlight to enhance your experience.
Snacks, however, aren’t encouraged since there are no trash cans along the trail. If you do bring a small snack, make sure to pack out your empty wrappers or bottles to keep the caverns in their beautiful condition.
Also, keep in mind that strollers and pets aren’t permitted. Now you’re all set—you know before you go!
Insider tip: Maximize your adventure
I cannot recommend this enough, and I’ll shout it from the highest peak of any U.S. National Park…purchase a National Parks Pass! For just $80 a year, it’s an unbeatable deal considering the average daily pass costs around $30. That means your pass pays for itself after about three Quick Turn Adventures, or you can really maximize it by visiting two National Parks in one trip.
Yes, it’s possible! On a previous 48-hour adventure, we grabbed our pass at the entrance to Arches National Park in Moab, Utah, and even managed to explore the stunning Canyonlands National Park just 32 miles away.
If you’ve got some flexibility on this trip, consider adding a second National Park to your itinerary. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is right on the way to Carlsbad Caverns…just thought I’d mention it again!
Journal the Journey
Whenever we’re on a 48-hour adventure, we make it a point to support local small businesses. Whether it’s grabbing a morning coffee, enjoying a brunch menu, or savoring a cozy dinner, we love trying something new and unique. Since I’m a fan of cooking and baking, I often snap photos and jot down ingredients to recreate dishes at home. That’s why I encourage you to “journal the journey.”
A simple pocket journal, like the ones you can find at Marshalls or TJMaxx, often costs less than $5 and makes for the perfect travel companion.
You never know when a flower, a dish, or a charming local shop will catch your eye. While you could snap a quick photo or search for it online later, writing it down in real-time adds depth to your experience. It’s not just about the visual, it’s about capturing how it made you feel, its colors, its aroma, or the way it brightened your day.
For instance, you can’t fully capture the smell of a freshly brewed pistachio latte in a photo. But with a quick note in your journal, you can relive that moment over and over again. It’s those little details that leave the biggest impact.
Discovering the depths: tips for your cavern descent
Every visitor will experience Carlsbad Caverns in their own way, and that’s part of what makes it so special. Here are a few tips from our journey into the caverns to help you plan yours.
If you’re looking for an easy way down, take the elevator ride 750 feet underground to the Big Room. It’s perfect for anyone with mobility challenges or those who prefer a quicker descent. There’s no shame in the elevator game!
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, take the 1.25-mile trail that winds its way down into the cavern. This journey takes about 1.5 hours and offers a unique perspective as you make your way to the Big Room. We decided to walk it, and it was an unforgettable experience.
As you approach the natural entrance to the cavern, you’ll pass the bat amphitheater. This incredible space wraps around the cavern’s opening and is where 140,000+ bats take flight each evening around 4 PM for their nightly feast of bugs. Make sure you’re well into the cavern by then, tickets are timed to ensure everyone is inside before the bats emerge.
Don’t forget that light jacket or hoodie we mentioned earlier. The cool air in the cavern (about 56 degrees) can be refreshing, but if you’re visiting in September like we did, the steep walk can also make you break a sweat.
As you begin your descent, you’ll notice a faint smell of ammonia, don’t worry, it’s not guano (bat poop), but bat urine. The smell fades quickly as you move deeper into the cavern. You might even spot a few bats sleeping in the shadows. Be sure to let them rest…shhh! Once you’re past the initial smell, you’ll be free to soak in the incredible beauty of this underground wonder.
Into the depths: the walk to the big room
As you follow the trail, the natural light slowly fades, creating a mysterious and magical atmosphere. In some areas, it gets so dark you can hardly see your hand in front of your face. Be mindful of the handrails as you descend, they might have a bit of bat guano on them, so use with care!
The trail covers 79 stories to the cavern’s bottom floor, with soft lighting strategically placed to guide your way. Along this path, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking formations, 250 million years in the making, and serenaded by the gentle sound of water dripping from above.
Even though others are sharing this journey with you, the spaciousness of the cavern ensures it never feels crowded or claustrophobic. A “library voice” is appreciated, adding to the serene and almost sacred calm that envelops you as you move from one stunning formation to the next.
Take your time to savor the beauty around you. It’s an experience that invites you to breathe in the “oohs” and “ahhs” as you marvel at the artistic power of water and time. Whether it’s the stalactites hanging like delicate chandeliers from the ceiling or the stalagmites rising like sculptures from the ground, every view is a chance to connect with nature’s artistry in your own way.
This part of the journey is personal…it’s about your reactions, your discoveries, and your moments of awe. Let yourself be fully present, soaking in the magic of this underground masterpiece.
Exploring the Cavern Floor: Rest, Refuel, and Discover
Congratulations…you’ve made it to the cavern floor! If you need a quick break, don’t worry. The area near the Big Room offers restrooms, snack counters, and even some gift shop items to browse. Signs will guide you to all the essentials, creating a helpful intersection before your next adventure begins.
Take a moment to rehydrate or enjoy a quick “snunch” (snack-as-lunch). While you’re there, find a cozy spot to rest—but be mindful of where you sit, as bat guano may be present. Remember, this is their home, and we’re just visitors!
The Big Room is staffed with friendly and knowledgeable Park Rangers, eager to answer your questions or point you toward the next must-see spot in the cave. Whether you’re continuing your exploration or ready to head back, their guidance can help you make the most of your time.
If it’s time to return to the Visitor’s Center, hop on the elevator, which opens into a well-stocked gift shop. Chris always finds a cool t-shirt, and I never leave without a magnet, little souvenirs that bring the trip home with us. Magnets are like memories that stick around long after we’re back.
So, we’ve explored, we’ve learned, we’ve shopped – what’s next?
Where to eat: Top Food Spots & Local Gems
Exploring Carlsbad and Alamogordo offers the perfect opportunity to savor local flavors and discover hidden culinary gems. Here are some of our favorite spots to fuel your adventure:
Start Your Morning at Blue House Bakery (Carlsbad)
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at the Blue House Bakery and Café. Known for its freshly baked pastries, cozy atmosphere, and a fantastic selection of breakfast items, it’s the ideal spot to relax and plan the day ahead. Don’t miss their signature coffee blends!
After soaking in the magic of Carlsbad Caverns, we realized we hadn’t yet explored the town of Carlsbad itself. So, off we went! Just a short 25-minute drive brought us into town, eager to find a local spot for lunch. Since we were looking for vegetarian-friendly options, we set out with open minds and oh my goodness, did we find the perfect place!
Lunch with Cozy Ambiance at YellowBrix Restaurant (Carlsbad)
Enjoy a delicious lunch at YellowBrix Restaurant. Known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu featuring everything from fresh seafood to hearty steaks, it’s a perfect mid-day stop to refuel before heading to your next destination.
Quick Bites at Local Food Trucks (Various Locations)
If you’re in a hurry, keep an eye out for local food trucks serving fresh, budget-friendly options. These mobile kitchens often feature delicious tacos, burgers, and even gourmet twists on classic dishes. Ask locals for recommendations—they know the best ones to try!
Afternoon Coffee and Pastries (Alamogordo)
In need of a caffeine boost? Stop by a small, locally-owned café in Alamogordo for a unique coffee experience. Many spots also offer one-of-a-kind pastries that pair perfectly with your brew. Ask around or check out Coffee Barn for a welcoming vibe.
Dinner with Authentic New Mexican Flair at Rizo’s Mexican Restaurant (Alamogordo)
Cap off your day with the rich and bold flavors of New Mexican cuisine at Rizo’s Mexican Restaurant. From enchiladas to stuffed sopapillas, every dish is made with love and showcases the vibrant culinary heritage of the region.
Ask the Locals for Hidden Gems
When passing through smaller towns, strike up a conversation with locals. They often have the best recommendations for hidden gems that don’t appear on travel apps. Whether it’s a mom-and-pop diner or a bakery tucked away on a side street, these spots often deliver the most memorable meals.
Heading to Alamogordo
New Mexico always seems to call us back with its incredible landscapes and unique charm. Over the years, we’ve made the most of our visits here, packing in as many must-see spots and hidden gems as we can…our classic 48-hour getaway style! Back in 2018, one of those stops brought us to the quaint town of Alamogordo and we try to visit as much as possible.
So for this trip, with an early flight out of El Paso on the horizon, Alamogordo was the perfect place to settle in for the evening and explore along the way.
Our journey that day was a 2-hour, 45-minute drive from Carlsbad to Alamogordo, and what a drive it was! Picture winding through rugged mountains, soaking in sweeping high-desert views, and our personal favorite…spotting elk. Yes, elk! For us, every glimpse of these majestic creatures feels like a small victory in our adventures
Elk Encounters and Sky-High Adventures in Lincoln National Forest
The wildlife you spot on your travels often depends on the time of year, and mid-September in New Mexico is no exception. While cruising down the scenic two-lane road through Lincoln National Forest, we were treated to an incredible sight: elk! And not just one or two—big, beautifully racked elk in all their majestic glory. It was truly a moment to remember.
If you have time, there are a few pull-offs along the road where you can snap some photos, but we opted to soak it all in by driving slowly, letting the “oohs” and “ahhs” flow as freely as the mountain air.
Here’s a fun tidbit: Lincoln National Forest is famously known as the birthplace of Smokey Bear, the beloved icon of wildfire prevention. It’s amazing how much history and beauty this forest holds!
After our elk-induced excitement (and a trek through the forest’s 7,000-foot elevation), we arrived in Alamogordo, New Mexico. While this charming town is usually a peaceful retreat, mid-September brings a burst of energy with the Alamogordo Hot Air Balloon Festival. In 2023, the festival celebrated its 30th anniversary at Ed Brabson Park, filling the skies with vibrant balloons and adding a touch of magic to the town. Who knew Alamogordo had its own balloon festival? Move over, Albuquerque—this gem deserves its own shout-out. You GO, Alamogordo!
Where to stay and snack in Alamogordo: pistachio paradise awaits
When we visit Alamogordo, we always stay at the Courtyard by Marriott. It’s conveniently located right on the main road, close to gas stations, local eateries, and—you guessed it—the home of the World’s Biggest Pistachio! Yes, pistachio-lovers, you’re in for a real treat.
As you drive down Highway 54, you’ll spot a giant, shelled pistachio rising proudly over the horizon. This iconic landmark belongs to McGinn’s PistachioLand, a must-visit for anyone who loves this tasty nut as much as we do.
Surrounded by picturesque pistachio orchards, the market offers a wide variety of flavored pistachios, shelled or unshelled, to suit every craving. And if you’re looking for something a little sweeter, don’t miss their creamy pistachio ice cream. Trust us, it’s as amazing as it sounds! They also stock 18 flavors of local honey, and yes, they even have wine to pair with your pistachios.
Can’t fit all your favorites into your luggage? No worries—you can order directly from their website. With the holidays just around the corner, these make the perfect gifts for the foodies (or nut-lovers) in your life.
Wrapping Up: Memories Made and Adventures Await
As we fuel up the rental car and prepare for the 90-minute drive back to El Paso Airport, it’s the perfect time to reflect. This is when I pull out my journal to recap all the incredible moments packed into this Quick Turn Adventure. From exploring awe-inspiring caverns and marveling at hot air balloons to indulging in pistachio treats and spotting majestic elk, this New Mexico getaway was nothing short of unforgettable.
Quick Turn Adventures are all about creating lasting memories with the wonder and curiosity that comes from visiting someplace new. Whether you’re wandering through a 250-million-year-old cave or savoring a locally brewed cup of coffee, the magic lies in saying yes to the journey. So go ahead…take the trip, travel often, and discover how beautifully connected we all truly are.
Ready to plan your next 48-hour getaway? Let us help you craft an adventure filled with memories you’ll treasure forever!
Looking for your next desert destination? Head over to our post on Saguaro National Park.
