News Release

Areas Closed Due to Recent Rain and Flooding at Carlsbad Caverns

Major flood damage to the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive.

NPS / Oscar Tavarez

News Release Date: August 25, 2022

Contact: Laura Steele / Chief Ranger, 575-236-1426

Contact: Michael Larson / Public Information Officer

Due to trail erosion from recent rain and flooding, the park's wilderness areas and backcountry trails are closed until assessments and repairs can be completed. Flooding also caused major damage to the unpaved Walnut Canyon Desert Drive. Until assessments are completed, it is unknown when repairs will begin.

The trails closed include Old Guano, Slaughter Canyon, Yucca Canyon, Guadalupe Ridge, Rattlesnake Canyon, Juniper Ridge, Double Canyon, and Ussery.

The following areas remain open: the main park road, Carlsbad Cavern, visitor center, overlook trails, and Rattlesnake Springs. Reservations are required to enter Carlsbad Cavern and must be purchased at recreation.gov or 877-444-6777.

Typically, mid-June through September is the area's monsoon season with periods of heavy rain from thunderstorms.