Carlsbad Caverns National Park Off The Beaten Path

In my humble opinion, the park service tried to name something cute for every odd formation, but the descriptions stretch the truth in many cases. You'll have to decide for yourself what is of interest and what not. You can come away with some great pictures provided you use your flash correctly (not that I did, mind you). Your camera can take away portraits that your eyes will never see.

When you tire of the chaparrals and hilltops around the caverns, and you think that the rest of the world is a dusty desert, you can drive 50 miles south of Carlsbad to the next closest national park at Guadalupe Mountains (in Texas). The park has 135 square miles of mountain ranges overlooking the desert below, and 80 miles of trail whereby to explore the backcountry. Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,749 feet, is accessible by trail (for the hale and hardy) starting behind the Pine Springs Visitor Center.

A few hours away northwest from the caverns off US-82, your family will enjoy the cool climes of a desert of white sand near Alamogordo. The Tularosa Basin is filled with 275 sq miles of rich sand dunes that are cool to the touch and fun to enjoy. Listen to park warnings about venturing out, then use common sense and go out and enjoy.

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Another National Park just down the road...

Visit my GMNP for all the details:
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

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White gyspum sand can reach up to 50 feet high in this location.

There is primative camping, food, hiking. Open daily; except Christmas Visitor center on US 70, about 190 miles from CNP.