Take Lower Cave Tour, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

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In 1924, National Geographic expedition members wrote about the wonders of Lower Cave. Visitors today can see the evidence left behind from these and other explorers. Highlights of this tour include The Rookery, with countless nests of cave pearls, the Colonel Boles Formation, and an incredible diversity of cave formations that compete for your attention almost everywhere you look. A strenuous descent of sixty feet of ladders and a knotted rope at the tour entrance sometimes causes participants to back out. If you have a fear of heights or difficulties with ladders, you may wish to consider visiting Left Hand Tunnel instead. Cost: $20 for adults and $10 for children, Senior and Access Pass holders. Tour participants must also purchase an entrance fee ticket.Backpacks are NOT allowed on this tour. Duration: 3 hours When: Monday through Friday at 1 p.m. Where: Tour departs from the visitor center theater. Requirements: Ages 12 and over. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants must be physically and mentally able to safely negotiate cave passages containing fragile formations without harm to the cave, yourself, or others. Good sneakers or hiking boots and four (4) AA batteries. Reservations are recommended for all guided cave tours. Availability is limited for some tours. Plan ahead and reserve early. Make tour reservations by calling 1.877.444.6777 or by visiting www.recreation.gov. A general admission ticket ($10 per adult) is required in addition to tour fees for King's Palace, Left Hand Tunnel, Lower Cave, and Hall of the White Giant tours. The cave climate is cool and varies little from the annual 56°F (13°C) average temperature. A light jacket or sweater, and comfortable shoes with rubber soles for good traction are appropriate year-round. In an effort to prevent White-Nose Syndrome at Carlsbad Caverns National Park, tour participants will NOT be allowed to enter cave areas with shoes, clothing, and/or equipment until they have been screened and decontaminated. Source: NPS

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