Lost Cave | New Mexico
Lost Cave is a limestone cave near the city of Carlsbad. It was the site of an isolation study in 1989 and contains two main rooms, filled with breakdown, and various side passages. The cave is horizontal, but the entrance is negotiated by a 15 foot ladder. It is co-managed by the BLM and the Pecos Valley Grotto, an internal organization of the National Speleological Society. Due to sensitive historic and biological resources in the cave, all trips must have a trip leader from this grotto.
What to Bring
- Helmet with headlamp for safety and hands-free movement.
- Gloves for hand protection.
- Elbow pads to help in tight climbs.
- Kneepads for protection in crawls.
- Sturdy boots to provide good support and traction.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
The cave entrance is several feet away from the road and is about a shoulder’s width. To enter, visitors must be able to climb down a narrow, 15-foot ladder. Caving at Parks Ranch Cave requires the ability to independently hike for several yards, squat, crawl, and climb sometimes in knee-to thigh-deep water throughout rough or narrow sections of cave system while carrying several pounds of gear.
Know Before You Go
Fees
None.
Facilities
There is no potable water at Lost Cave.
There are no restrooms at Lost Cave.
Nearby Amenities
The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water or additional gear is in Carlsbad, NM.
Season/Hours
Based on Pecos Valley Grotto availability.
Precautions
Carry a pack with emergency lights, first aid, food, and water.
Cave safely and responsibly. If new to caving, find an experienced mentor.
Inform others of where you are going and your expected return time.
Be alert for rattlesnakes and other animals that are also drawn to entrance areas of caves.
Be aware of sudden storms.
Special Rules
Review Cave Safety guidelines before your trip.
This cave is co-managed by the Pecos Valley Grotto, a chapter of the National Speleological Society.
Please contact a grotto member for access to the cave.
All visitors are expected to abide by Leave No Trace principles to protect sensitive cave resources.
Brochures, Maps, and Publications
N/A
Wildlife in Area
Bats
Snakes
Red-spotted toads
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Contact the Pecos Valley Grotto to arrange a trip.
Fees
No Fees
Stay Limit
Photo Album
