Have you been thinking about visiting Mammoth Cave National Park? Are you wondering what there is to see and do (besides the obvious)? You’ve come to the right place! I’m about to let you in on how to have one big day in Mammoth Cave.
I love this park, and I want you to leave loving it, too! Make sure you read my TIPS at the end to avoid disappointment when you visit. Believe me, these tips are essential to ensure you have a fantastic day at Mammoth Cave.
*There is no entry fee for Mammoth Cave National Park and no fee for parking, but you will be required to purchase tickets to enter the cave.
Why Should You Visit Mammoth Cave?
- How about it’s the longest known cave in the world?
Mammoth Cave is 426 miles long and counting. Each year, the Cave Research Foundation based in Horse Cave, KY recruits volunteers to continue exploring and mapping the cave. They are nowhere close to being finished!
- It’s a spectacular example of a dry cave.
What does that mean? The cave is “dry” because of the special cap of sandstone and shale it wears over the limestone. Mammoth Cave maintains its signature rotundas and halls of stone because of that cap.
- Mammoth Cave is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Biosphere Reserve.
Basically, these elite designations mean Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the most fabulous places on earth. You can learn more about why the park earned these designations in the visitor center. So, let’s head that way.
5 Things You Need to Do at the Visitor Center
Being a volunteer at Mammoth Cave National Park in 2019 was the opportunity of a lifetime. I learned so much about the cave from the rangers and I was lucky to be taken on a private tour.
My job in the visitor center was to stand at the front desk, point people to ticket sales, and answer two questions all day:
- “What tour should we do?”
- “What hike should we do?”
What Cave Tour Should You Do?
THERE ARE NO BAD TOURS! Trust me, I’ve done most of them. Different tours may focus on different aspects of the cave- history, formations, etc., but all are fantastic.
Be sure to read tour descriptions thoroughly before making your decision. Rangers are happy to answer questions, but there are some questions you should ask yourself before purchasing tickets.
- How far am I able to walk?
- How long can I comfortably walk?
- Can I negotiate uneven ground?
- Can I climb steps? If so, how many am I able to climb?
- Am I able to walk in a stooped position for a temporary time?
- How well can I tolerate tight spaces for a temporary time?
- How long can I endure being in a darkened space?
- Will I have children accompanying me?
Your answers to these questions should be what ultimately determines your choice of tours. Don’t compromise your health and safety just because you want to see a particular area of the cave. Like I said, THERE ARE NO BAD TOURS.
Go to Mammoth Cave National Park’s website for detailed descriptions of each tour to find the best tour for you based on your answers to the above questions.
*Note: The cave maintains a temperature of about 55 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. You may want to take a jacket. I always wear a light jacket or hoodie.
What Tours Do I Like?
All of them, but I don’t mind telling you about my personal favorites. (Again, read full tour descriptions on the park’s website before making your selection.)
*Note: The tours I’m describing below are NOT going to start/end at the iconic Historic Entrance. All of the tours I’ll describe begin a short bus ride away at either the Carmichael Entrance or the New Entrance and exit at the Frozen Niagara. If you want to see the Historic Entrance, you should plan to take the steep paved walk from the visitor center to the Historic Entrance before or after your tour or choose a tour that begins at the Historic Entrance. The self-guided tour is a great choice before or after the tours below or as a stand-alone tour.
Grand Avenue
This is a 4-hour, 4-mile tour and rated strenuous due to hundreds of stairs that must be climbed. So far, it’s my absolute favorite because it encompasses all aspects of the cave- history, geology, biology, and it features not only areas of dry cave, but a lot of stalagmites and stalactites, too. This tour has it all!
The best thing about Grand Avenue is it includes two of my other favorite tours- Domes and Dripstones and Frozen Niagara. Before choosing this tour, be aware that Grand Avenue requires a lot of walking, climbing hundreds of stairs, sometimes walking in a stooped position, and a lot of energy.
I have done this tour a few times and each time I was exhausted by the end- not just from the physical activity, but from being in a darkened space for 4 hours. You’ll be surprised how draining that can be. Still, Grand Avenue is AWESOME!
Domes and Dripstones
This seems to be the tour I gravitate to the most solely because of the tour’s length. This is also the one I like to do if I’m bringing a first-time visitor along. Since I only take day trips to Mammoth Cave, I usually don’t have time to combine a 4-hour tour with surface hiking. Otherwise, I’d do Grand Avenue more often.
Domes and Dripstones is a terrific tour lasting approximately 2 hours. You will walk .75 miles through the cave and descend approximately 250 feet. Like Grand Avenue, this tour is rated strenuous due to the hundreds of stairs you are required to climb.
The ranger stops twice during the tour to give you some very interesting information about the cave and to answer any questions. Don’t be shy! I love it when kids ask questions. You’ll be surprised by their insightfulness and enthusiasm.
The tour ends at the Frozen Niagara which most people consider the piece de resistance of the Grand Avenue and Domes and Dripstones tours. I can’t wait for you to see it!
Frozen Niagara
The Frozen Niagara route is included on the Grand Avenue and Domes and Dripstones tours, so whether you do the Frozen Niagara exclusively is really dependent upon your time constraints and abilities.
The tour travels about .25 miles, lasts 1.25 hours, and has 64 steps you must climb. There are an additional 96 steps you may choose to take to get more up-close and personal to the Frozen Niagara formation. This tour is rated as one of the least strenuous the park offers, so if you are looking for an easier and/or shorter tour, Frozen Niagara is a great choice.
The famous “frozen” formation is a stunning example of flowstone reminiscent of a melted chocolate ice cream waterfall. You will also see gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites on this tour.
*Note: There is a good spot next to the frozen formation where you can get a group photo or selfie. Keep in mind, a lot of people want that same photo, so please be respectful of others and don’t be the person that holds up the whole group.
Surely, you didn’t think I was about to show you the whole thing! No way! You’ve got to see it for yourself. You will not be disappointed!
*Insider Tip: No matter what tour you take, if you plan to take photos inside the cave, stay toward the FRONT of the tour. Rangers will typically say this at the beginning. Believe them!
It took me 5 years, but I finally took their advice and had my best tour experience. While others were filtering around me, I had plenty of time to take photos and then catch up with the group. As others stopped to take their photos, I passed them and returned to the front. This strategy allowed me to take all the photos and mental notes I wanted!
Have you done a cave tour at Mammoth Cave?
Let me know which one you liked in the comments!
What Else Can I Do Besides a Cave Tour?
I’m so glad you asked! The cave is the star of the park, of course, but you can also take some easy nature walks, hike, ride your bicycle, tour the museum, attend a ranger talk, picnic, shop for souvenirs, and get ice cream in the cafe. I recommend doing everything. I’m a pack-it-all-in kind of gal!
Nature Walks and Hikes
You should thoroughly read trail descriptions available on the park’s website, and make sure you pick up a trail map at the visitor center before you start your hike. Choose a trail that fits your time constraints and abilities. If you are taking a cave tour after your hike, make sure you watch the time. You don’t want to be late for your tour.
I love that so many of Mammoth Cave’s hiking trails connect. You can hike 20 minutes or several hours depending upon what trails you choose. Which trails do I like? Read on!
Green River Bluffs Trail to River Styx Spring Trail to Historic Entrance Trail
My favorite hike is Green River Bluffs Trail to River Styx Spring Trail and back to the Historic Entrance Trail. You’ll find the Green River Bluffs trailhead across the visitor center parking lot on the far-right side of the picnic area. I like hiking this trail in late autumn after the leaves on the trees have fallen. Fewer leaves mean better views of the river!
*Note: You can reverse this hike and start on the Historic Entrance Trail (trailhead located at the visitor center), but either way, you’ll have an uphill climb at the end. There’s no avoiding it!
What You Should Know About Green River Bluffs Trail:
- Mileage: Approximately 2 miles (Consider connecting to other trails if you want a longer hike.)
- Difficulty: Moderate (Rated by AllTrails.com.)
- Terrain: Uneven; a lot of exposed tree roots and rocky areas; some steep switchbacks (especially on River Styx portion of the trail)
I usually plan to be on the trail for at least an hour. I’m a leisurely hiker, because I like to take lots of photos of the river and read signage. (I don’t know why I read the signs. I’ve read them over 20 times. One of my many eccentricities, I guess.)
There will be a fork in the Green River Bluffs Trail where you can either choose to go right for the River Styx Trail or left for the Dixon Cave Trail. Refer to the park’s trail map if you’d like to take Dixon Cave Trail back to the Visitor Center. Dixon Cave has a small, inaccessible entrance you can see. Climb up to the observation platform for a good view and information about the endangered bats that migrate here. The hike I’m taking travels to the right on the River Styx Trail.
I encourage you not to miss the very short spur trail to your right down to the Green Riverboat Landing. You will see a sign about the riverboat at the trailhead. Make your way down the gulley until you reach the bluff’s edge. From here, you’ll get some great views of the Green River.
Upon returning to the River Styx Trail, go to your right and almost immediately take a left to head back toward the Historic Entrance and visitor center. You will notice this looks less like a trail and more like a service road. Get ready for an uphill trek! If you often hike uphill, this won’t be a big deal, but for those who don’t, you may find yourself a little winded. Take some breaks!
Keep following the River Styx Trail until you reach the tour group shelters and visitor center.
Why is this hike my favorite? For one, it takes me by the Historic Entrance. I have to see it every time! Of course, you can design several hikes to end up walking by the Historic Entrance depending on the distance you want to hike and the time you have available. (Refer to the park’s trail map.)
Have you done any hikes at Mammoth Cave National Park?
Let me know which hikes you like in the comments.
Heritage Trail to Sunset Point and Old Guide’s Cemetery
I walk this trail almost every time I go to Mammoth Cave. It’s an easy ADA accessible loop and Sunset Point remains pretty all year. I especially love seeing it in late summer and fall. To access the Heritage Trail, cross the footbridge behind the visitor center and walk toward the lodge. You will see the sign for the trailhead to your right.
*Update: The Heritage Trail will be closed for trail improvements beginning January 6, 2025. Trail should reopen in September 2025.
You can access the historic entrance to the cave from Heritage Trail by going down the steep set of steps to your right toward the beginning of the trail.
Don’t miss the short walk from the Heritage Trail up to Old Guide’s Cemetery. You will see the sign for the trailhead to the right when you reach the trail map shelter which marks the beginning of the Heritage Trail loop.
Read the cemetery signage, or you may miss something very unusual. (Hint: It has something to do with Stephen Bishop.) You should take a few minutes to read about Stephen in the visitor center museum before exploring the park. Very interesting history! Getting a little background will give even more depth to your big day in Mammoth Cave.
Continue around the Heritage Trail loop (either direction) to reach Sunset Point. Late afternoon/early evening is the best time to see the view in my opinion, but it’s worth the walk to see it anytime. Great place to enjoy a cup of coffee from the Maple Springs coffee shop in the lodge.
Head back toward the lodge on the Heritage Trail and enjoy the rest of your day at Mammoth Cave!
The other visitor center area trails are worth exploring, too. I’ve done them all. You can find more information about those trails on the park’s website. However, there is one that is a must-do if it’s your first time at the park, and that’s Sand Cave Trail. The trailhead is located just a short drive from the visitor center headed toward Cave City, KY.
Sand Cave Trail
At .1 miles, Sand Cave Trail is hardly a hike, but a nature walk you’ll want to be sure to take. Bonus- it’s ADA accessible. I think this trail is a little freaky. It’s not even what you see on the trail that’s freaky, but the story of what happened in 1925.
You absolutely must read the signage here about Floyd Collins’ death. (Don’t worry, it just take a few minutes to read.) Then use your imagination to picture what’s described. Even better, read a little more of the story HERE on the park’s website. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but suffice it to say the public’s fascination with and reaction to Floyd’s ultimate demise left me flabbergasted. Seriously?
Sloan’s Crossing Pond Trail
This .4 mile ADA accessible boardwalk trail received an overhaul in 2024 and is now one of my favorites. Sloan’s Crossing Pond is so peaceful. You can usually see frogs, birds, and other wildlife along with lush wetland vegetation. The best time to see the pond is in autumn when the leaves are changing colors.
Backcountry and Maple Springs Area Trails
I can’t speak on these trails as I have never done any of them. Rangers should be asked about the nitty-gritty on backcountry trails, and you’re going to need a permit if you plan to camp.
Bicycle Riding
If you enjoy riding bikes, then I definitely recommend the Hike and Bike Trail that starts at the visitor center and ends in Park City for a total of approximately 9 miles ONE WAY. That means from the visitor center to Park City and back to the visitor center is 18 miles. Quite the ride!
I have not biked the entire route YET. The reason- I only own a beach cruiser, and although it worked pretty well on some parts of this trail, it was not ideal. At one point, I had to give it up. If you have a mountain bike, you’re golden. If you have a mountain e-bike, you’re my hero. I am waiting for the day I can finally get one! Any recommendations on an affordable one? Let me know in the comments!
Picnicking
There are two areas where you can picnic in the visitor center/southside areas, and those are located across from the visitor center parking lot and at Sloan’s Crossing Pond.
We have always chosen the picnic area across from the visitor center for three main reasons. It’s easily accessible from the visitor center parking lot, there are lots of tables, and there is a centrally located restroom which we’ve always found to be in tidy condition. (Maybe we’ve just gotten lucky.) Sloan’s Crossing Pond only has 3 picnic tables, so it’s harder to get one on busy days.
*Note: Regardless of where you eat, always, always, always be sure to pick up your trash! Don’t be the person that spoils the beautiful spaces others came to enjoy. It’s selfish, lazy, and shows clear disrespect for the environment. Can you tell that’s one of my pet peeves?
Souvenirs
The answer is YES. Get souvenirs! No first-time park experience is complete for me without them. I typically buy my mementos in park bookstores, but at Mammoth Cave, you can actually find a better selection at the hotel gift shop. So, look in the visitor center bookstore, but before you settle on your souvenirs, cross the footbridge to check out what’s available.
Ice Cream!
If you’re looking for something to satisfy a sweet tooth after all your cave touring, hiking, and biking, I suggest crossing the footbridge behind the visitor center and heading to The Lantern Cafe & Ice Cream Parlor. Personally, I’m not a big fan of the lunch fare, but the ice cream- that’s another story! A good selection of flavors is always available, and the ice cream isn’t the big bulk store variety. This ice cream is local!
Chaney’s Dairy Barn in Bowling Green, KY has been making award-winning ice cream for years on their property using fresh milk from their own Jersey cows. Two popular flavors are Wow Now Brownie Cow and Cow Tracks, but my go-to is Cherry Althea. Yum!
Lodging
The only lodging option in the park (other than camping) is the Mammoth Cave Lodge. The lodge offers standard hotel/motel style rooms as well as small vintage woodland cottages. I’ve never needed to stay overnight, because the park is too close to home, but after seeing what’s coming in 2025, I think spending a whole weekend in the park might be necessary. Meet Mammoth Cave’s new family cabins!
These rustic meets contemporary cabins are elegantly poised on the edge of the Heritage Trail overlooking the historic entrance section of the River Styx Trail. Talk about location! I am in love with these cabins already.
Tips for Avoiding Disappointment at Mammoth Cave
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of planning your visit to Mammoth Cave well in advance- mainly to ensure you get to tour the cave. The following is a list of what I think is most important when planning a trip to Mammoth Cave.
- MAKE CAVE TOUR RESERVATIONS! The number one complaint I had to field when volunteering at the visitor center was, “You mean I came all this way, and I can’t tour the cave?” You MUST make reservations for cave tours in advance through www.recreation.gov or there is a very good chance tours will be sold out when you get to the park. And don’t worry if your first choice of tours is sold out. As I said earlier, there are no bad tours.
- Cave tours are NOT covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. Cave tour tickets are the same price for annual passholders as for non-annual passholders. Senior Pass and All-Access passholders receive a 50% discount on cave tour tickets. (Discount applies for the passholder only.)
- Mammoth Cave is on Central Standard Time! I can’t tell you the number of people I dealt with at the Visitor Center who were mistaken about the time zone and ended up missing their tours. Most weren’t able to book another tour. Talk about disappointing!
- Get to the park early! I’m talking 8:00-8:30 AM early, especially during the very busy season. There is a lot of parking, but it’s amazing how quickly it fills up. You don’t want to have a tour reservation for 11:00 AM, arrive at 10:00 AM and be circling the parking lot, because all the spots are taken.
- Restrooms are NOT available on all tours. Take your needs into consideration when choosing your tour. READ TOUR DESCRIPTIONS!
- If you are in the park earlier than your tour time, don’t underestimate the amount of time it will take you to complete hikes, bike rides, etc. before your tour. If you are late for your tour, the rangers will not wait for you. Your safest bet is to make sure you are back at the visitor center 45 minutes before your tour. That will give you plenty of time to walk through the museum and use the restroom before you meet up with your tour group.
- No food or drinks other than water are allowed on tours. I recently saw someone try to get on the tour with a grande latte. No go.
- Wear appropriate shoes! Flip-flops are not a good choice here. Tours can cover some uneven ground in dimly lit spaces. Wear closed-toe shoes with traction. I’ve seen numerous people lose their footing because they weren’t wearing proper footwear.
- Backpacks that come up past your shoulders aren’t allowed on cave tours. You’re not hiking the Himalayas here! Some tours require navigating through tight spots, so a big backpack can be a hindrance.
- Be aware there are no strollers or backpack-style child carriers allowed on cave tours. You can have a front carrier only.
AND FINALLY…
Go to Mammoth Cave knowing it isn’t like any other cave you’ve seen, and don’t expect it to be. It’s not Carlsbad Caverns. It’s not Cathedral Caverns.
It’s Mammoth Cave.
Grand. Gloomy. Peculiar. AWESOME.
My poem “Contrition” reveals how my experiences in caves unearthed a fresh perspective on my life.
From My Library
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