At the edge of the boundary, the traveler arrives at the turn-off point to the Caverns' entrance. If the journey is made in winter, zero temperatures can be expected at the coldest times. In summer the desert heat may reach 100 and often does. Winter or summer, the route is open, for the Caverns never close, being open to the public the year 'round. In winter the sandy soil may be buried under a blanket of freshly fallen snow, the air with a light snap and crystal clear 'neath a warm winter sun. In the summer months a bluish desert haze often filters down on the surrounding countryside, but it does not stop even the slightest breeze from whipping up a soft funnel of dust from the dry, parched earth, or sending a tumbleweed rolling along a haphazard path towards an undetermined destination. But the traveler's destination by this time has almost arrived. Highway No. 7 leads seven miles up Walnut Canyon road through rocky mesas covered with choice examples of desert flora, and well they might be nice, for now, inside the park boundary, park laws protect their safety and no one is allowed to touch them. They live their normal lives secure and aloof from man's sometimes destructive inclinations. The visitor is now within the more than 45,000 acres that constitute Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The paved highway that leads to the Caverns' entrance is indeed a decided contrast to the wagon wheel trail followed by Dr. Willis Lee and his party of explorers which first covered the route by automobile in 1923. His engine was overheated and steaming after taking two hours to make the trip from Carlsbad. Now, at last, at the entrance to the famous Caverns, the visitor is excited at the thought of what he is to see, but few anticipate the real treat that is in store for them underground. Here, at an altitude of 4,350 feet above sea level, is found the natural entrance to the cave. Park regulations are studied in order that no bounds may be overstepped. No living thing may be touched or disturbed, thus assuring protection and perpetuation of plant and animal life within the park. The walls of the Caverns may not be touched, defaced, scratched or marred in any way. Canes or walking sticks may not be carried except upon permission of a park official, who will decide if such cane or stick is necessary for the owner to make the Caverns trip. No dogs are allowed in the Caverns. They may be kept in the kennels provided for the purpose at a nominal charge. Cameras may be used on the surface, but within the Caverns they may be used only on the special photographic tour, full information concerning which may be obtained from the superintendent's office. [Illustration: © BY ROBERT NYMEYER King's Palace] There are no accommodations for camping or overnight lodging within the park, but motels are available at Carlsbad and smaller communities along the highway in either direction from the Number 7 turn-off.