There is a vast network of caves in New Mexico. If you're a spelunker to any degree, you've undoubtedly heard of and most likely experienced the jaw-dropping Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico. But the state is filled with lesser-known but still exciting caves as well. Here's why you should explore Fort Stanton Cave, the second-longest cave in the state, and learn about its secret Snowy River Passage:
Fort Stanton–Snowy River National Conservation Area was established in 2009.
It is located at an elevation of about 6,300 feet above sea level in the eastern foothills of the Sierra Blanca Mountains of south-central New Mexico. The area includes beautiful mesas, rolling hills, streams, and, to the delight of many, caves! Let's take a look at a few Fort Stanton Cave photos to tickle your spelunking fancy.
Within the conservation area, you'll find Fort Stanton Cave. At over 42 miles long, it is the second-longest cave in New Mexico.
The Bureau of Land Management says it is now the 10th longest in the U.S. and 62nd longest in the world.
It is also the largest cave managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
The cave continues to be mapped and explored, although at present, it is less than half of its known length.
At the moment there are no Fort Stanton Cave tours. The cave is closed for recreational exploration to protect the bat population from White Nose Syndrome.
The surface area above the cave is open year-round for hiking and recreational enjoyment.
Fort Stanton Cave contains aragonite, selenite needles, helictites, and various gypsum formations, but is best known for its rare velvet formations.
The views within the cave are natural and left very uncommercialized, which holds great appeal to true adventurers.
Its emerging discoveries and continued exploration are what make it so appealing to many.
The most significant and exciting find is the Snowy River Cave inside.
The name comes from a bright white crystal calcite formation that runs along the floor of the passage.
At 11 miles, Snowy River is the world's longest calcite formation.
Snowy River continues to flow on and off, which limits exploration times. This part of the cave is currently not available to the public due to ongoing scientific studies.
What caves in New Mexico have you visited, and which ones do you consider the most visit-worthy? If you are looking for a nice place to stay near Fort Stanton, try the Huckleberry Hideaway in nearby Alto.
If you are still yearning for another spelunking experience after experiencing the amazing labyrinth of Fort Stanton Cave in New Mexico, consider a trip inside this icy cavern in New Mexico that is positively surreal!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-mexico/nm-frozen-cave/
Another incredible place to explore in New Mexico is the Bisti Badlands. This other-worldly landscape is an outdoor explorer paradise:
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