Everyone knows the “popular” National Parks. And we know the ones I’m talking about without listing them here. But there are many other lesser known and less visited National Parks that are well worth being explored. One such park is Mammoth Cave National Park, located in Southern Kentucky. This National Park is famous for having the world’s longest known cave system, earning it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.
My family visited this park on overnight stop on our “Great Smoky Mountain” road trip. And it turned out to be a delightful and memorable surprise.
So, come join my family on our visit to this wonderful park and learn how to plan your perfect visit.
First up…
WHEN TO GO
My family visited in the summer when temperatures average in the high 80s. This is, of course, a popular time to visit and is the most crowded. Plan well and you won’t be disappointed.
If you choose to visit in the Spring, expect a lot of rain. Southern Kentucky, where Mammoth Cave is located, receives the highest average precipitation for the state at this time.
Winters average in the low 40s and can bring mild to moderate snow and ice.
But whatever time of year you visit, one thing remains the same — the temperature deep in the cave! It remains a constant 54°F (12°C). Fascinating!
Next, choose…
WHERE TO STAY
For my family, I looked no further than the Lodge at Mammoth Cave, which is the only lodge in the park.
Located directly next to the Visitor’s Center, it offers hotel rooms as well as historic cottages nestled in a woodland setting all within walking distance to cave tours and park trails. Perfect for our family!
For the campers out there, you can be “one with nature” in designated campgrounds or back country campsites with a valid reservation or permit.
Now, let’s explore…
THINGS TO DO
Mammoth Cave National Park offers visitors an array of activities. But of course, most visitors come for the…
Cave Tours
This National Park offers visitors different cave tours varying in lengths and intensity. And, of course, they are very popular and book up quickly so plan and book in advance.
To get an overview of the different cave tours offered, make sure to head over their website: https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm
My family took the The Historic Tour , one of the most popular tours at Mammoth Cave. This tour starts at the “main entrance,” also called the Historic entrance, into Mammoth Cave. Follow in the footsteps of other visitors who have been touring the cave for the past 200 years.
Keep in mind that you can take a guided tour or a self-guided tour. Either option charges a fee.
Ranger Led Programs
are offered both “under ground” and “above ground.” Programs include cave tours, walks and talks and of course, junior ranger activities. Make note that all ranger programs offered “above ground” are offered free of charge. However, ranger led cave tours charge a fee. Always check the park’s website for their current program and event schedule so you don’t miss a thing.
Participating in a park ranger program. 
Pics from our Cave Tour
Hiking
“above ground” is also another fun activity. With 18 miles of easy to access trails found on the south side of the Green River, you can take a day to explore the above ground geology and history of the park.
The two most popular hikes are considered easy trails, being less than a mile in length and are wheel chair accessible.
First up is the Echo River Spring Hike. Here you will discover where two worlds collide. This walk takes you to Echo River Spring, where the underground Echo River emerges from Mammoth Cave to reach the surface.
Next up is the Heritage Trail Walk. This trail is adjacent to the Mammoth Cave Hotel. Hear the stories of the old Mammoth Cave Estate and the history of both enslavement and freedom. This walk includes the grave of enslaved guide Stephen Bishop.
And while you’re out walking, take part in…
The Beneath Your Feet Program
designed to help you appreciate the mysteries and geological wonders of Mammoth Cave while exploring the park’s above-ground walking trails.
Signs are located along trails and walking paths throughout the park’s visitor center and campground area. They include images and information about the natural history of the caves found beneath your feet,. Also, they include smartphone ready QR Code links to scan and watch videos of park rangers teaching you about the location below you. Pretty cool, huh!
Looking to get off the land, well there are plenty of …
Water Activities
Over 30 miles of the Green and Nolin Rivers run through the Mammoth Cave National Park. With this, visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing and kayaking. These rivers offer something for everyone.
And finally, if you want more, this park offers biking, star gazing, campfires or just sitting back and enjoying nature.
FINAL TIPS FOR A GREAT VISIT
Before you head out to this National Park, here’s some final thoughts and helpful tips to have the best possible visit:
- Book your cave tour tickets and lodging in advance.
- Research to find the right tour for you. Mammoth Cave offers a variety of cave tours for visitors of all abilities an interest. Head over to their website to learn more.
- Bring a jacket if taking a cave tour. Temperatures within the caves average about 54 degrees year round.
- Join a ranger led program. Most of these programs are free, those above ground anyway. The cave tours, of course, come with a fee.
- Load this park’s app on your phone. Wifi is spotty at best in this park with the exception of the Visitor’s Center.
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I hope this post inspires you to get out and explore ALL of our National Parks. No matter how big or small, each one offers its visitors a memorable and unique experience.
To read more of my family’s National Park adventures, click below: https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?page_id=280.