Anthony Gap Cave [Suggest Edits]

Description

Stretching two hundred yards underground, Anthony Gap Cave is one of the Franklin Mountains most unusual and unexpected features.

Whereas most of the area caves are small, sheltered overhangs cut into the side of the rock, Anthony Gap cave proceeds downward. The opening is visible at the top of Anthony Gap Cave Trail, covered in graffiti.

The entrance is about an eight to nine foot drop. Visitors without some climbing or bouldering experience should bring rope to help with an exit. Once inside, there are a number of caverns to be explored, connected by narrow crawlways. A headlamp is necessary, as it'll be pitch black by the third room.

It should go without saying that visitors need to take the precaution of exploring in a group or letting another person know where they are.

Short Run: The cave is easily accessible from New Mexico State Highway 404. Look for a cattle gate off the right side of the highway. A parking area is located a short distance ahead to the left. From there, it's a short mile and a half hike on the Sierra Vista Trail and Anthony Gap Cave Trail to the entrance. The ascent can be steep with loose footing at times.

Use caution passing a clearing on the right about a quarter mile into the trail. This area is occasionally used as an unofficial shooting range by some locals, and there have been a few rare reports of people shooting in the direction of the trail. The vast majority of shooters are responsible, but report any issues to the BLM Las Cruces District Office at (575) 525-4300, or with the local police.

Gem Type: Cave