Carlsbad Caverns - Slaughter Canyon

 

Slaughter Canyon is an out-and-back hike which goes about 5 1/2 miles from the trailhead to the Guadalupe Ridge Trail, for a total of 11 miles (really about 11 1/2). We knew it would be challenging and strenuous and it was.

The trail starts by going up the canyon wash; walking on the river rock was much harder than we expected. After a while, the cairns marked the path out of the wash and through the desert landscape. And after another while, back the trail went into the wash!

After about three miles, the trail started climbing, eventually reaching the ridge. That was hard work!

We made it to the end! To tell the truth, it wasn't very impressive. There was even a knocked over sign saying the trail was closed due to flood damage.

We did it! But it took all of our energy, and about 45 minutes of rest to recover. We're not getting younger, which is sad. Of course, it was a hot day (close to 100 degrees) which didn't help. Never knowing what the weather will be is part of the fun of our national park vacations.