Carlsbad Caverns National Park reopened to visitors today, Thursday, Oct. 17. Visitors can access all public areas and travel on park roads immediately, as well as use park facilities and other public services. The park has been closed since Tuesday, Oct. 1 because of the lapse in congressional appropriations of funds to operate the national parks.
“We are excited and happy to be back at work. We welcome visitors back to Carlsbad Caverns National Park,” said Chief Ranger, Lila Mohesky-Roybal. “This is a great time of year to enjoy all that the caverns have to offer.”
Visitors may tour the caverns via the natural entrance descending 750 feet on switchback trails or by taking the elevator. All regularly scheduled cave tours are available and require reservations and an additional fee. General admission fee for the park is $10 for adults - visitors age 16 and older; age 15 and younger are free. Visitor center hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last entry into the cave via the natural entrance is at 2 p.m. and last entry via the elevators is at 3:30 p.m.
For more information about open hours, cave tours, and other activities, call 575-785-2232 or visit www.nps.gov/cave.