Lechuguilla Cave

Lechuguilla Cave is, as of June 2013, with the seventh-longest explored cave in the world and the second deepest () in the continental United States after the Tears of the Turtle Cave in the Bob Marshall Wilderness of Montana but it is most famous for its unusual geology, rare formations, and pristine condition. The cave is named for Agave lechuguilla, a species of plant found near its entrance. Lechuguilla is in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. Access to the cave is limited to approved scientific researchers, survey and exploration teams, and National Park Service management-related trips.