Carlsbad Caverns - Slaughter Canyon Cave

 

The Slaughter Canyon Cave is about 1/2 mile up the mountain near the entrance to Slaughter Canyon. It has apparently been kept in a natural state - no paved paths or lighting - and in times past rangers took small groups on tours. Unfortunately, those tours have been discontinued. However, we figured we could still hike the trail, so we did. The trailhead is at the end of a decently-graded dirt road, and is complete with parking for a dozen cars, pit toilets, and even a couple of picnic tables. The trail is quite steep, but doable, and probably a bit easier on a day that wasn't quite so hot.

Wayne made it to the cave entrance first; he's a faster hiker! But I wasn't too far behind him.

After our "end of the trail" photo, it was time to head down the mountain and back to the car. It was a bit disappointing not to be able to tour this cave, but I found some reviews and pictures of others who had the chance.