Carlsbad Caverns and Beyond: A Whimsical Family Road Trip Adventure
Our expedition to Carlsbad Caverns unfolded as the kids and our four-legged companions yearned for a break from the confinements of the car. As we rumbled into the parking lot, uncertainty loomed about the RV situation despite the website's assurance of available parking. To our delight, a convoy of campers greeted us, signaling a promising beginning.
However, a surprise awaited us in the form of a sign declaring, "Dogs not allowed to stay in cars; please use provided kennels." Aha! Our furry friends were in for a treat. The kennels, a marvel in themselves, were air-conditioned sanctuaries with sturdy enclosures. With a sigh of relief, I confirmed there was ample space for our trio of canine adventurers. A gentle reminder prompted me to present proof of rabies vaccination for our canine companions to gain entry into this subterranean oasis.
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**Exploring Carlsbad Caverns: A Century of Wonders**
With the dogs comfortably settled, we ventured into the depths of the caverns, only to discover that our timing was impeccable – it was the centennial year of Carlsbad Caverns! Opened in 1923, this underground wonder had captivated visitors for a century. What a privilege to explore its mesmerizing formations a hundred years after the first intrepid souls!
Opting for the elevator descent to the Big Room for a self-guided tour, we were spellbound by the spectacular array of stalactites and stalagmites. For families with young kids, the elevator was a game-changer, whisking us 750 feet underground in a mere 2 minutes. True, it skipped the Bat Cave, but November meant the bats had already embarked on their winter sojourn.
The Big Room loop, just over a mile, proved to be a perfect fit for little legs. The kids took turns leading, with occasional hand-holding on steeper sections. Our little daredevil, M, seemed blissfully unaware of the cavernous depths beneath her feet, more interested in "puddles" than potential dangers. L was on a stalactite-stalagmite discovery mission, while O napped away in the cool underground breeze, snug in Mom's baby carrier.
As we completed the loop, we explored structures with intriguing names like Doll Theater, Chinese Theater, and Bottomless Pit. The souvenir shop beckoned, and the novelty of munching snacks 750 feet below the surface delighted the kids. Postcards in hand, we reluctantly paid the $15 kennel fee per dog – a small price for their safe haven – and prepared to hit the road again.
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**Unexpected Wildlife Encounter: Scaling the Mountainside**
With no camping plans for the night, we weighed our options – Ft. Bliss FamCamp, Chosa Campground, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, or a straight shot to our Arizona destination. As we pondered, a pit stop for gas at a slightly overpriced station (the only one for the next 150 miles) led to an unexpected wildlife spectacle.
Heading down the serpentine road, L spotted movement on the mountainside, and we quickly found a pull-off that questionably held the truck and camper. Peering through the camera viewfinder revealed what L had spotted with ease. A herd of nearly 50 Aoudad Sheep was scaling the side of the mountain in the shade to reach the top. It was an incredible experience, and I cannot wait to see the photos that Steven got! This was by far his favorite part of the day.
Fueling up and contemplating our next move, we pressed on towards El Paso. The plan? Drive as far as possible before the kids declared mutiny. Our hopes of camping at Guadalupe Mountains National Park were dashed as we rolled in just three minutes after the Visitor Center closed. Undeterred, we drove through El Paso, encountering roadside horses – domestic or wild, the mystery remained.
Dinner in El Paso, a final gas top-up, and we were on the road again. The next stop? Mesa, Arizona, to visit Jennifer's uncle and Steven's aunt and grandpa. With the kids dozing in the back, we traversed a mesmerizing road illuminated only by our headlights and a sea of stars.
As the midnight hour approached, a celestial show began. A meteor shower graced the night sky, and we counted shooting stars as we drove. But, just as the beauty of the universe unfolded, a sense of suspense took hold. The diesel tank, nearing empty, prompted a decision to rest at a truck stop. We stole a few hours of sleep, nestled in the camper, only to wake up to a realization – the fuel situation had been overlooked.
With dawn breaking, we resumed our journey, and anxiety gripped us as the fuel gauge flirted with empty. Desperation set in, and we fervently prayed for divine intervention. The next gas station loomed just 5 miles away, but as we pulled in, our relief turned to dismay – no diesel pumps in sight. A loop back out, heightened panic, and the next station were 16 miles away – a challenging stretch when towing a camper that guzzles fuel at a rate of 12 miles per gallon.
In a desperate attempt to alleviate the tension, I plugged in my earbuds, turned on some worship music, and clung to hope. The truck, now audibly complaining, began to coast downhill for almost half of the 16 miles. Yet, as we approached the exit to the closest station, another cruel twist – all diesel pumps were wrapped up for service.
A frantic search for the next diesel station ensued. The truck strained against the incline, and the fuel light flickered ominously. With every mile, our hearts raced. Finally, an oasis emerged – a diesel pump at the next station. We sighed with relief and offered a prayer of thanksgiving for a safe arrival.
With the fuel tank now replenished, we continued our journey to Mesa ahead of schedule, surprising our hosts with early morning donuts. A regional park across the street provided a picturesque stop for the dogs, and a glimpse of local wildlife – coyotes hunting along the riverbed.
Now, poised for a couple of nights of relaxation with family, a refreshing dip in the pool, and hopefully, a timely departure for Thanksgiving, we reflect on the rollercoaster of surprises that defined our road trip. As we continue our adventure, we eagerly anticipate the stories yet to unfold on this whimsical road trip through the heartland of America.
