Old Guano Trail
A historic one-way descent following the former guano-hauling road from the cavern entrance area to White’s City.
Route overview
Old Guano Trail in New Mexico.
This route connects the visitor-center plateau with White’s City while tracing the industrial history of guano mining. Ruins and debris appear roughly 1.6 km from the start. The first 3.7 km descend gradually; the final 2.3 km become steep and lose about 174 metres.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- New Mexico
- Distance
- 6.0 km one way
- Typical duration
- 2.0 hours one way
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- point-to-point
Safety context
This is not a loop. Arrange a legal pickup or vehicle shuttle before starting; do not assume transport at White’s City. The trail closes near the cavern entrance during Bat Flight programs. Protect historic material and do not remove debris or artifacts. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
This is not a loop. Arrange a legal pickup or vehicle shuttle before starting; do not assume transport at White’s City. The trail closes near the cavern entrance during Bat Flight programs. Protect historic material and do not remove debris or artifacts.
Highlights
Old Guano Trail, historic hike, point-to-point, White’s City, Carlsbad Caverns, mining history
Why find a buddy
Best for buddies who coordinate two endpoints, transport and a fixed turnaround decision. Match on downhill comfort, heat tolerance and interest in cultural history.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.