Walnut Canyon Desert Drive is a scenic loop road to Carlsbad Caverns
Walnut Canyon Desert Drive is a scenic drive through the Chihuahuan Desert located in Eddy County in the U.S. state of New Mexico.
Where is the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive?
Located on the southeastern part of New Mexico, in the rocky slopes and deep canyons of Guadalupe Mountain range, the road leads to the Carlsbad Cavern, a labyrinth of more than 300 limestone caves, carved over 250 million years ago.
How long does it take to drive to complete the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive?
Located within the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, plan about 45 minutes to complete the drive. The road gives you the chance to experience the flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert. Along the way are numbered stops corresponding to particular points of interest, described in a tour guide available for purchase at the visitor center.
When is the best time to drive the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive?
The road, also known as Reef Top Circle, is open year-round. The drive can be hot in summer. The rest of the year, especially fall, is usually more pleasant.
How long is the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive?
The one-way road is totally unpaved and not too narrow. It’s 15.77km (9.8 miles) long. It starts on the Carlsbad Cavern Highway (New Mexico State Route 7) near the visitor center and rejoins the park road lower down Walnut Canyon. The road is not maintained for low clearance vehicles and is closed to RVs, buses, and trailers.
Pic: NPS / Michael Larson