Attractions and Places To See in Eddy County - Top 10
Best attractions and places to see in Eddy County include a diverse landscape featuring the Chihuahuan Desert, extensive cave systems, and natural waterfalls. This region in New Mexico offers opportunities for exploring geological formations and historical trails. Visitors can experience desert flora, canyon views, and unique natural monuments. Eddy County provides a range of outdoor activities for those interested in natural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Eddy County
- The most popular attractions is Carlsbad Caverns, a…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Carlsbad Caverns
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Carlsbad Caverns Cave Interior
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Permian Reef Trail (Switchback Section)
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Old Guano Trail
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Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail
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Sitting Bull Falls
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Rattlesnake Canyon Overlook
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Slaughter Canyon Cave
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The hike itself is not very long but on a rugged steep path.
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On the 'Desert Loop Road' you'll find a small area to stop, walk off the road, and have a beautiful view overlooking Rattlesnake Canyon.
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This steep section of the Permian Reef Trail takes you up to the top of Wilderness Ridge through an ancient, fossilized reef known as the Capitan Reef. The trail was designed to showcase preserved Permian age geologic and fossil features in the park; you can download a NPS guide to the marked fossils along this trail ( http://npshistory.com/brochures/gumo/permian-reef-trail.pdf ). As you ascend this challenging, but fun, section of trail you get increasingly great views of the large imposing cliff-sides that comprise the bulk of the ancient reef and down into McKittrick Canyon. As you climb, you will pass by some amazing geologic features like a free-standing natural rock pillar, numerous fossils, the striking rounded rock rim of the Wilderness Ridge, and sweeping views across the park.
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Sitting Bull Falls is a picturesque 150 foot tall waterfall found in Lincoln National Forest. The waterfall is fed by the Sitting Bull Springs, which can be found at the top of the canyon and can be reached via a nearby hiking trail. You can swim in the pool below the falls. There are picnic areas and shelters found in the nearby recreation area, which connects to the falls via paved paths.
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On the 'Desert Loop Road' you'll find a small area to stop, walk off the road, and have a beautiful view overlooking Rattlesnake Canyon.
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Extensive visitor center that should be your first stop when arriving at the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Enjoy hands-on exhibits, a park film, gift shop, restaurant and book store.
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An easy, family friendly nature trail with signage explaining everything about the flora in the Chihuahuan Desert.
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On the 'Desert Loop Road' you'll find a small area to stop, walk off the road, and have a beautiful view overlooking Rattlesnake Canyon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions to explore within Carlsbad Caverns National Park?
Carlsbad Caverns National Park features over 119 caves. The two main trails open for exploration are the Big Room Trail and the Natural Entrance Trail. You can explore these at your own pace or opt for a guided tour. Additionally, the park offers the Carlsbad Caverns Cave Interior visitor center with exhibits and a gift shop.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Eddy County?
Yes, Eddy County offers several family-friendly spots. Sitting Bull Falls is a picturesque waterfall where families can swim in the pool below and enjoy picnic areas. The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail is an easy walk with educational signage about local flora, suitable for all ages. The Rattlesnake Canyon Overlook also provides accessible scenic views.
What kind of hiking trails can I find in Eddy County?
Eddy County offers a variety of hiking experiences. For an easy, educational walk, try the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail. The Old Guano Trail offers desert views and historical mining ruins. For more challenging terrain, consider the Permian Reef Trail (Switchback Section). You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in Eddy County guide.
Where can I see a waterfall in Eddy County?
You can visit Sitting Bull Falls, a 150-foot tall waterfall located in Lincoln National Forest. It's a popular spot for swimming in the pool at its base and has nearby picnic facilities.
Are there any historical sites or trails in Eddy County?
Yes, the Old Guano Trail is a historical in-and-out trail starting from the Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center. It follows a route once used to haul guano from the caves and features ruins from past mining operations, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
Can I go backcountry camping at Carlsbad Caverns National Park?
Backcountry camping is permitted at Carlsbad Caverns National Park, but you must obtain a free backcountry use permit from the visitor center on your arrival day. Camping is generally allowed west of the Rattlesnake Canyon trailhead and south of the Guadalupe Ridge Trail to the park boundary.
What is the bat flight program at Carlsbad Caverns?
From May through October, Carlsbad Caverns hosts a bat flight program at the Bat Flight Amphitheater, located at the Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Cavern. The start time varies with sunset, offering a unique opportunity to witness bats emerging from the cave.
Are there challenging hikes available in Eddy County?
For those seeking a challenge, the Permian Reef Trail (Switchback Section) offers a demanding hike with rewarding canyon views. Another challenging experience is exploring Slaughter Canyon Cave, which typically requires a guided tour due to its difficulty.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Eddy County?
Eddy County offers several scenic viewpoints. The Rattlesnake Canyon Overlook provides expansive views of the canyon. The Permian Reef Trail (Switchback Section) also features stunning canyon vistas. Additionally, the Old Guano Trail offers beautiful desert scenery.
What is the best time to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park?
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open year-round, but the bat flight program runs from May through October. Spring and fall generally offer milder temperatures for outdoor activities, while summer can be hot, especially for surface trails. Winter visits are also possible, with fewer crowds.
What kind of natural features can I explore in Eddy County beyond caves?
Beyond its extensive cave systems, Eddy County is home to diverse natural features. You can explore the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem along the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail, witness the impressive Sitting Bull Falls, and enjoy canyon landscapes from viewpoints like Rattlesnake Canyon Overlook.
Are there short, easy walks with scenic views in Eddy County?
Yes, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail is an easy, family-friendly walk offering scenic desert views. Another option is the short walk to Sitting Bull Falls, which leads to a beautiful waterfall and its surrounding recreation area.
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