Slaughter Canyon Cave
An undeveloped “wild cave” that can only be explored with a ranger and headlamp. It features the Patriarch, a stone column rising up to 27 meters.
Slaughter Canyon Cave lies in a remote canyon about 40 km southwest of the main cave, with no lighting or paved paths inside. Participants must bring their own headlamps and water and wear non-slip shoes. The route first climbs a steep kilometer-long slope to the cave entrance, then continues for about 2 hours inside the cave. Highlights include the giant column called the Christmas Tree (Cranesman), pearl-like formations and bat fossil layers. Tours run infrequently and seasonally, so advance booking is required. This tour suits visitors with good physical fitness.
Opening hours
By guided tour schedule (seasonal; reservation required)
Nearby sights
- Rattlesnake Springs
- The Big Room
- King's Palace Tour
- Bat Flight Program
- Natural Entrance Trail
- Walnut Canyon Desert Drive
- Sitting Bull Falls
- McKittrick Canyon