Big Room - Los Alamos, New Mexico - Massive Chamber of Underground Sights

The "Big Room'' is the largest chamber and primary destination of all basic tours at Carlsbad Caverns. Viewing this massive natural enclosure on foot covers a full mile. The journey can be undertaken as a self-guided underground walk, although an audio guide is recommended to enhance the tour, which lasts from 60 to 90 minutes.

Access from the Carlsbad Caverns Visitor Center to the Big Room is via elevator. Following a circular route, around its perimeter, visitors pass by a number of large and famous features, such as the Bottomless Pit, the Giant Dome, the Rock of Ages, and Painted Grotto. The pathway is well lit and accessible to wheelchairs. Baby strollers, however, are not permitted.

The floor space of the Big Room covers about 357,480 square feet or approximately eight acres. It reaches a height of 285 feet in some places. Although it is not really possible to get lost inside, it is a good idea to pick up a map at the information desk before making the descent, and those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

An entrance fee of $6 is charged for all adults. Anyone aged 15 years or younger is admitted free of charge. Audio guides cost $3 extra. The Big Room is open from 8:30am daily until 5pm in summer and 3:30pm in winter. The address is 3225 National Parks Highway, Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220.