5 Must-Take Hikes During Your Trip to Mammoth Cave National Park

It’s not just the impressive caves that will leave you in awe

Have you ever been to a national park where the main attraction is underground? Well, that’s precisely what you’ll find at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky.

This park is home to the world’s largest known cave system, and it’s so massive that it is almost double the size of the second largest! Scientists believe that there are over 400 miles of passageways lurking beneath the surface.

The park was established on July 1, 1941, and sees over half a million visitors yearly. Mammoth Cave National Park’s cave system is a popular location for scientific study, as new passages are discovered each year. The caves are made from limestone that was formed millions of years ago when a shallow inland sea covered the area.

As time passed, layers of sediment built up on the seafloor and were eventually exposed to air as the sea receded, causing the sediment to turn into rock. Over time, the water table began to rise, and rainwater seeped through cracks in the limestone, slowly eroding it and creating the caves we see today.

But the caves are not the only thing that makes this park special. Above ground, you’ll find miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along rivers. In this blog post, Parks and Landmarks will highlight five must-take hikes during the time you spend above ground!

Remember, you can book tours of many of these cave systems, and while we don’t highlight any of them here, they can also provide a fantastic hiking experience with a little less sunlight involved.

1. Cedar Sink

Starting the list with a simply beautiful trail full of lush tree life, Cedar Sink earns its name from the gorgeous trees and plant life you will see on this trail.

While the trail is short, it is the perfect place to start your Mammoth Cave National Park experience, as it will give you a taste of the different flora and fauna you can find in the park. The sink itself leads into one of the many cave systems and is a popular place for many animals to cool off, so keep your eyes open.

Total Distance: 1.80 miles

Elevation Gain: 232 feet

Difficulty: Easy — Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info: 

• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• There are stairs located on this trail.
• Be aware that ticks are common on this trail, so check your clothes and pets after you hike.
• This hike is child-friendly.

2. Mammoth Cave Railroad Trail

Ready to put those legs (or pedals) to the test?

The Mammoth Cave Railroad Trail is a 15-mile trail that will take you on a tour of the hilly land surrounding Mammoth Cave National Park. This is a rails-to-trails conversion, which means it was once a railroad track but has been converted into a multiuse trail. This is a fantastic hike for those who want to explore the area on a bike or foot.

Total Distance: 15.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 862 feet

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking, Biking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info: 

• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• This trail is shared with bikers.
• Most of this trail is made of gravel.
• Use caution, as this trail intersects roads meant for car traffic.

3.Green River Bluffs and Heritage Loop

This hike offers sweeping views of the Green River and vast fields of wildflowers that envelop the trail.

On the hot Kentucky summer days, this trail is perfect for cooling off with tons of shade as you make your way up to the bluffs. The heritage loop will introduce you to some of the history of the area with signs along the way that give you insight into how the park has changed over the years. If you’re interested in learning even more after your hike, the visitor’s center is only 0.3 miles away and can easily be hiked to!

Total Distance: 2.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 374 feet

Difficulty: Easy — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info: 

• Many trails intersect with this one, so be sure to have a map or trail app so you don’t jump on the wrong trail.
• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• This trail can be rocky at times, so ensure you bring proper footwear.

4. Echo River and River Styx Springs Trail

This next hike is a bit longer, but it is worth it.

The Echo River and River Styx Springs Trail will take you along the river for most of the hike, giving you ample opportunity to see some of the gorgeous wildlife that calls this park home. The trail is named after the River Styx, the river in Greek mythology that transports the dead through the underworld, because it leads you through a cold, watery cave that is sure to put a chill down your spine..

Total Distance: 3.41 miles

Elevation Gain: 426 feet

Difficulty: Easy — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info: 

• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• This trail takes you near a river that can be fast moving at certain times of the year.
• Be aware that ticks are common on this trail, so check your clothes and pets after you hike.

5. Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail

Why only take one trail when you can take four?

The Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail will give you a chance to see all the best that Mammoth Cave National Park has to offer. This connected hike will take you through some of the park’s most popular areas while being a great workout. While this hike is a bit longer, it is perfect for those who want to see as much of the park as possible.

Total Distance: 4.47 miles

Elevation Gain: 426 feet

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info: 

• This is a combination of multiple trails that connect.
• Dogs must be leashed on this trail.
• Be aware that ticks are common on this trail, so check your clothes and pets after you hike.

Getting out to see the Mammoth Cave National Park trails is a great way to spend a day. With so many different options, there is sure to be a hike that is perfect for you. So after you wander into the dark, eerie world of the incredible cave systems, be sure to head out into the light and explore the unbelievable trails this national park offers. You won’t be disappointed!