Explore the Wonders of Slaughter Canyon Cave
Discover the breathtaking underground beauty of Slaughter Canyon Cave in New Mexico, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, Slaughter Canyon Cave is a hidden gem that invites adventurers to discover its stunning formations and rich geological history. Guided tours offer an immersive experience into this fascinating underground world, perfect for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Embrace the thrill of exploration and witness the beauty of nature at its finest.
A brief summary to Slaughter Canyon Cave
- Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220, US
- +1575-785-2232
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails comfortably and safely.
- Bring a light jacket, as temperatures in the cave can be significantly cooler than outside.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning formations, but be mindful of the cave's rules regarding flash photography.
- Plan to arrive early to enjoy the surrounding hiking trails before or after your cave tour.
Getting There
-
Car
From any location in High Plains, New Mexico, navigate to US-62 E/US-180 E. Head east on US-62 E/US-180 E for approximately 75 miles until you reach Carlsbad. Once in Carlsbad, continue on US-62 E and follow signs for Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Turn left onto Carlsbad Caverns Highway (NM-7) and continue for about 20 miles. Look for the entrance to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where you will begin your journey to Slaughter Canyon Cave. Note that there is an entrance fee for Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which is approximately $15 per vehicle.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from various cities to Carlsbad. Once you arrive at the Carlsbad bus station, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service (such as Uber or Lyft) to take you to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The distance from the bus station to the park entrance is about 20 miles, and the taxi fare may vary, so be prepared for an additional cost. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance for availability.
-
Hiking
After arriving at Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you will need to hike to Slaughter Canyon Cave. Follow the designated trails within the park, which are well-marked. The hike to the cave entrance is approximately 1 mile from the parking area. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, as the trail can be steep in some sections. The cave tours typically operate from 8 AM to 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Discover more about Slaughter Canyon Cave
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship on the Desert
24.8 km
Discover the Ship on the Desert, a unique historical landmark in Dell City, Texas, offering a glimpse into the region's captivating past amidst a stunning desert landscape.
Frijole Ranch Museum
31.6 km
Explore the Frijole Ranch Museum in Texas - a rich tapestry of ranching history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage awaits your discovery.
Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins
33.7 km
Discover the historic Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins, a glimpse into Texas' rich past amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
35.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and historic sites of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, a must-visit destination in Texas.
Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1
35.9 km
Explore the rich military legacy and stunning desert landscapes at Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1, a captivating historical landmark in New Mexico.
Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII
39.4 km
Explore the historic Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII, a significant military site that shaped aviation history during World War II.
Carlsbad Monument Co
45.7 km
Explore the artistry of memorials at Carlsbad Monument Co, a unique destination in New Mexico dedicated to personalized craftsmanship and local history.
Flume
45.7 km
Experience the warmth of American comfort food at Flume in Carlsbad, NM, where every meal feels like home.
Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation
45.8 km
Experience fun and camaraderie at Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation in Carlsbad, NM—where every frame is a new memory.
El Charro
45.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Charro, Carlsbad's beloved Mexican restaurant, offering generous portions and a lively atmosphere.
North Star Laundry Mat Lea Street
46.0 km
North Star Laundry Mat in Carlsbad, NM: Clean, convenient, and essential for travelers needing laundry services in New Mexico's beautiful landscapes.
Danny's Place
46.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of barbecue at Danny's Place in Carlsbad, NM, where smoky meats and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
Tia Maria Apartments
46.2 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Tia Maria Apartments, your ideal base for exploring Carlsbad, New Mexico's natural wonders and attractions.
The HideOut
46.2 km
Experience the best pizza in Carlsbad, NM at The HideOut, where every slice is a delicious adventure waiting to be savored.
Little Kawaii
46.3 km
Explore Little Kawaii in Carlsbad, NM—your ultimate destination for anime, gifts, and a taste of Japanese and Korean culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness
2.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness in New Mexico, a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
3.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a stunning natural wonder in New Mexico with incredible caves and diverse wildlife.
Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead
8.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await every hiker.
Black River Recreation Area
9.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities at Black River Recreation Area, a true gem in New Mexico's outdoor landscape.
Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area
9.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area in Carlsbad, NM, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center
13.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, your gateway to stunning limestone caves and diverse ecosystems.
Bat Flight Amphitheater
13.9 km
Witness the breathtaking bat flight at Carlsbad Caverns' Bat Flight Amphitheater, a must-visit natural spectacle in New Mexico.
Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance
14.0 km
Discover the wonders of Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance in New Mexico, a breathtaking underground marvel filled with stunning formations and rich biodiversity.
Sitting Bull Falls
18.9 km
Discover Sitting Bull Falls, a stunning waterfall in New Mexico, where nature's beauty awaits amidst captivating landscapes and serene waters.
Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area
19.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Sitting Bull Falls, where cascading waterfalls and serene picnic spots await your discovery in New Mexico's desert paradise.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters
44.3 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters, a natural wonderland in New Mexico, perfect for adventurous spirits.
Cass Park
44.5 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Cass Park in Carlsbad, NM—a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike.
Arcadia Park
45.2 km
Explore Arcadia Park: A serene green oasis in Carlsbad, NM, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and family fun.
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
45.6 km
Explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the Chihuahuan Desert at Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park in Carlsbad, New Mexico.
Cruz Fernandez Park
45.7 km
Explore Cruz Fernandez Park in Carlsbad, NM - a serene escape with lush landscapes, recreational activities, and family-friendly amenities.
Essential places to dine
Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room
13.6 km
Enjoy delicious sandwiches amidst stunning geological wonders at Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room, a must-visit dining experience.
Cactus Cafe
19.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Cactus Cafe, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality near Carlsbad Caverns.
Taqueria Jalisco
42.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Jalisco in Carlsbad – where every bite tells a story.
The Carrot Top
43.5 km
Experience delightful dining at The Carrot Top in Carlsbad, NM - where fresh ingredients meet flavorful creations in a cozy setting.
Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill
43.6 km
Discover Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill in Carlsbad: where delicious cuisine meets vibrant sports culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Mariscos El Buchón
43.8 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Mariscos El Buchón in Carlsbad - where every dish brings the taste of the ocean to your plate.
Tina's Mexican Café
44.1 km
Discover Tina's Mexican Café: where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in Carlsbad, NM.
La Patrona
44.3 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at La Patrona in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish is a celebration of flavor.
Sabor Mexicano
44.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Sabor Mexicano in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish tells a story!
Kacys Kitchen
44.5 km
Experience the charm of Kacy's Kitchen in Carlsbad - where delicious American comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Sotelo's Food and Clamatos
44.5 km
Experience the best seafood in Carlsbad at Sotelo's Food and Clamatos - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
El Nopal
44.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Nopal in Carlsbad - where every meal is a flavorful journey into tradition.
Maria's Mexican Food
44.6 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Maria's Mexican Food in Carlsbad—where every dish is crafted with care and flavor.
Big Dogz Tacos, LLC
44.6 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Big Dogz Tacos, LLC—Carlsbad's top destination for delicious tacos and vibrant dining.
May's Dari-Lea Drive In
44.7 km
Discover delicious Mexican flavors and classic fast food at May's Dari-Lea Drive In in Carlsbad - a must-visit for every traveler!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company
13.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local flavors at Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company, your perfect stop near the stunning Carlsbad Caverns.
White's City Gift Shop
19.3 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at White's City Gift Shop, the perfect stop for tourists visiting Carlsbad Caverns.
Walmart Supercenter
45.1 km
Discover Walmart Supercenter in Carlsbad, NM - a comprehensive shopping experience for travelers with everything you need under one roof.
Cato Fashions
45.1 km
Discover trendy women's clothing at Cato Fashions in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where style meets affordability for the perfect shopping experience.
Calvani Pecan Co
45.2 km
Explore Calvani Pecan Co in Carlsbad, NM, where delightful pecan treats await you - a true taste of local flavor and tradition.
Pilot Travel Center
45.2 km
Discover the Pilot Travel Center in Carlsbad, NM - your ultimate roadside stop for fuel, food, and convenience while on the go.
Carlsbad Horitculture Society
45.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Carlsbad Horticulture Society, a charming gift shop in the heart of New Mexico.
La Tienda Thriftway
45.7 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at La Tienda Thriftway, the heart of grocery shopping in Carlsbad, NM.
El Vaquerito Western Wear & Workwear
45.8 km
Discover authentic western apparel at El Vaquerito in Carlsbad, NM—your destination for cowboy culture and quality workwear.
Bosque Cbd
45.8 km
Discover wellness at Bosque Cbd in Carlsbad, New Mexico – your go-to destination for organic products and CBD expertise.
HTeaO - Carlsbad
45.9 km
Explore HTeaO in Carlsbad, NM: A Tea Store Offering Premium Brews and a Cozy Atmosphere for All Tea Lovers.
Decor Furniture
46.3 km
Discover stylish furniture and decor at Decor Furniture in Carlsbad, NM - a treasure trove for home design enthusiasts.
Pecos Valley Production - Mermod
46.4 km
Discover the vibrant cannabis scene at Pecos Valley Production - Mermod in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where quality meets community.
Cloud 9 Smoke Shop
46.4 km
Explore Cloud 9 Smoke Shop in Carlsbad, NM for an exceptional selection of vaporizers and a welcoming shopping experience.
Rugged Trade
46.4 km
Discover high-quality work clothes, outdoor gear, and western apparel at Rugged Trade in Carlsbad, NM - your adventure starts here!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co
44.1 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co, a welcoming brewpub in Carlsbad offering local craft beers and delicious food.
Blue Cactus Lounge
45.7 km
Discover the lively social scene at Blue Cactus Lounge, Carlsbad's go-to bar for craft cocktails, local brews, and unforgettable experiences.
Cal's Shade Western
45.8 km
Discover the heart of Carlsbad at Cal's Shade Western, where delicious grilled meals and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.
SIPS Sodas & Snacks
48.0 km
Experience the refreshing taste of SIPS Sodas & Snacks in Carlsbad, NM—where every sip and snack is a moment to cherish.
