Alerts & Conditions

Alerts

Caution

• High Fire Danger

  Alert, Severity, caution, High Fire DangerDue to high fire danger, there are multiple closures and prohibited activities. The main park road to Carlsbad Cavern and the visitor center is open.more

Information

• Timed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern

  Alert, Severity, information, Timed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad CavernReservations are highly recommended and can be purchased by clicking "more" or calling 877-444-6777. Reservations only select the entry time. Upon arrival at the visitor center, an entrance pass must be purchased.more

• Footwear in the Cavern

  Alert, Severity, information, Footwear in the CavernFor safety, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended. Flip flops, sandals, and some walking shoes have little or no traction and increase the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. Watch your step and use the handrails when necessary.

• Items Worn or Used in Other Caves Not Allowed

  Alert, Severity, information, Items Worn or Used in Other Caves Not AllowedA disease known as White-Nose Syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading to our bats, do not wear shoes, clothing, or bring any gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park that were in another cave.more

• Closures Due to Flood Damage

  Alert, Severity, information, Closures Due to Flood DamageSome areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive and some trails remain closed after extensive flood damage. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.more

• Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) Are Prohibited

  Alert, Severity, information, Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) Are ProhibitedThe use of unmanned aircraft, also known as drones, is prohibited within Carlsbad Caverns National Park.more

Timed Entry Tickets Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern

• Reservations are strongly recommended and can be purchased online or by calling 877-444-6777.
• Reservations are only for selecting the entry time.
• Upon arrival at the visitor center, entrance tickets must be purchased.

 

Fire Danger

Due to high to extreme fire danger, Carlsbad Caverns National Park has implemented the following preventative measures:

• Fire, charcoal, and propane grills are prohibited within the park;
• Smoking is prohibited, except inside personal vehicles; and
• Open flames and cooking stoves are prohibited in the backcountry.

The increased fire danger is due to prolonged hot, dry, and windy weather. These factors result in extremely dry vegetation that is highly susceptible to even the smallest spark. These measures will be in effect until the fire danger subsides.

 

Flood Damage

In August 2022 a historic flood occurred causing changes in park operations. Visit the Flood Damage Update page for more information.

Walnut Canyon Desert Drive Closed Due to Flood Damage

It is unknown when repairs will begin or the length of time to complete. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.

Backcountry and Trail Closures Due to Flood Damage

The following areas & trails are closed:

• Guadalupe Ridge (visitor center to Slaughter Canyon Trail)
• Rattlesnake Canyon
• Juniper Ridge.

Learn more about about backcountry trails that are open.