Where is the Walnut Canyon Desert Drive?
Usa, north-america
15.77 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the stunning Chihuahuan Desert in southeastern New Mexico, right in the heart of Eddy County. You're winding your way through the rugged Guadalupe Mountains, heading towards the incredible Carlsbad Caverns – a mind-blowing network of limestone caves sculpted over, like, 250 million years.
The whole drive, which they also call Reef Top Circle, takes about 45 minutes and is a chance to soak in all the desert has to offer – plants, critters, the whole shebang. There are marked stops along the way so you can delve deeper into what you're seeing with a guide.
You can do this drive any time of year, but be warned, it can get HOT in the summer months. Fall is where it's at, though – just perfect driving weather.
The dirt road itself is almost 10 miles long, a one-way loop that kicks off from Carlsbad Cavern Highway (Highway 7) near the visitor center and loops back around. Keep in mind this is a bit rough for cars that sit low to the ground, and it's a no-go for RVs, buses, or trailers.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 15.77 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
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