Carlsbad Caverns National Park
The world that exists deep below the surface in Carls-
bad Caverns National Park is a subterranean marvel.
Created slowly over the millennia, its beautiful forma-
tions awe visitors year-round. Considered by many as
the Eighth Wonder of the World, it is one of twenty World
Heritage Sites in the United States.
Visitors walking through the cave today are seeing but
a snapshot of the area’s geologic history. Cavern devel-
opment began about 250 million years ago when a reef
formed along the edge of an inland sea. The sea even-
tually evaporated and left the reef buried under deposits
of gypsum and salts.
Then, about 500,000 years ago, after groundwater lev-
els had dropped, the slow process of speleothem – sta-
lactites, stalagmites, and flowstone – formation began
with a single drop of water. Billions and billions of drops
later, park visitors marvel at these monuments of time.
Pecos River Recreation Area
Located on the banks of the Pecos River in Carlsbad,
the Pecos River Recreation Area hosts the Riverwalk
Recreation Center and Playground on the Pecos. High-
lighted by multiple picnic areas, paddle boat and kayak
rentals, and various boat tours, it’s the perfect family
getaway. Saturday nights during the summer feature
free movies sponsored by Carlsbad Cruise Lines.
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
Get to know the beautiful Chihuahuan Desert firsthand
at Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park. This unique
park allows visitors to learn about the plants and animals
that inhabit the southwestern Chihuahuan Desert, North
America’s largest desert.
CARLSBAD, NM
At the park you will be able to walk along the 1.3 mile
paved pathway that leads you to many native animals
such as Mexican wolves, javelinas, pronghorn, mule
deer, bison, and mountain lion. The park also serves as
a safe haven for injured and orphaned birds, mammals,
and reptiles that can no longer survive in the wild. Cacti
and succulent plants from around the world are dis-
played in a special greenhouse.
”
The world that exists deep below the surface in Carlsbad Caverns National Park
is a subterranean marvel. ”