Exploring the Areas Around You: Local Parks Offer Entertainment

By Misty Cryer

When people ask what there is to do in Carlsbad, my thoughts instantly jump to the parks. There are several in and around Carlsbad that offer days of enjoyment for people of all ages and walks of life. I do have a few favorites to recommend.

Hiking at McKittrick Canyon during the fall is one of my favorite experiences. While the canyon is part of Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas, it does expand into Eddy County. The place is so beautiful, especially in the fall when the leaves start to change.

There are several hiking options with varying levels of intensity to choose from. Personally, I am not an avid hiker, so I avoid the challenging paths, though I’ve heard the view gets better the farther you go into the canyon. I prefer the McKittrick Canyon Trail that leads to Pratt Cabin because it’s pretty level, though rocky.

The first time I went, we had a baby in a stroller and an elderly couple with us, so part of the party didn’t go all the way to the cabin but enjoyed the day in nature just the same. The cabin-goers videoed the hike so we could all share the experience.

To learn more about McKittrick Canyon, visit: https://www.nps.gov/gumo/planyourvisit/mckittrick.htm.

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is another favorite for a whole different reason. It is an awesome place for a family day out, and it makes a great day date too. Of course, the zoo has native animals from the area with gardens featuring native plants, a gift shop, and a picnic area, but this park is so much more than that.

The visitor center is educational with displays and hands-on activities, and several events are held there throughout the year, including things like story time. That is the first place that taught me that this area was underwater millions of years ago. When my kids were small, the family membership from Friends of the Living Desert would come in handy; we spent a lot of time there. I still enjoy visiting from time to time.

To learn more about Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, visit: https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/living-desert-zoo-and-gardens-state-park/.

Friends of the Living Desert, a non-profit organization, is also a good resource: https://livingdesertnm.org/.

Sitting Bull Falls is a fun-filled outing for all ages. Lots of memories have been made there from my teenage years through adulthood with friends and family. I am a fan of waterfalls and springs. The falls are fed by springs, so it’s kind of a two-in-one experience.

For members of a party who are challenged by rough trails, Sitting Bull Falls is a good choice because there is an accessible path to the viewing area, picnic areas with covered patios, and hiking trails. Grills are also available on-site for barbecuing if that’s a preference.

To learn more about Sitting Bull Falls, visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/recreation/sitting-bull-falls-recreation-area/.

In addition to these three, there are parks all over Carlsbad, along with a plethora of recreational opportunities in town and close by. Occasionally, I act like a tourist and Google “things to do in Carlsbad, NM.” It gives me ideas and sometimes surprises me with something new to check out.

As with any outing, it is always a good idea to plan your trip to be aware of the conditions at the time, the hours of operation, fees, and restrictions. When venturing into the Chihuahuan Desert, reviewing safety tips to prepare for the area you are visiting is wise. Water, sun protection, and a first-aid kit are always at the top of my list, but I also review tips from the park, so I know what to take and what to look out for. I also take trash bags and strive to leave the place better than I found it.