Mammoth Cave National Park is the world’s longest known cave system. With over 400 miles of explored passageways, the park offers a variety of ranger-led cave tours as well as camping, hiking, horseback riding, biking and many other activities.
Below you will learn more about visiting these mammoth caverns in south central Kentucky. Get useful information and find out what else this national park and the surrounding area has to offer. Be sure to watch our video walk through that is included at the very bottom.
Location and Hours
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in Mammoth Cave Kentucky, Northeast of Bowling Green. It’s about an hour and a half from both Nashville Tennessee and Louisville Kentucky.
Address:
1 Visitor Center Parkway
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
Hours: Vary depending on what you want to do and the season. The Park itself is open year round, 24 hours a day.
There are many Mammoth Cave Tours to choose from. They tend to run from 9 AM to 4 PM and visitor center’s open until 4:30 in the winter and 6:00 PM in the summer.
Last tickets generally are for 3:00 PM
Admission prices: Vary on the Tour you choose.
Regular Admission ranges from $11 to $66.00
Child Admission ranges from $9 to $27.00
Senior Admission ranges from $5.50 to $33.00
A few things you will see:
During one of your many tour options you will get the chance to see unique geological features and rock formations. Other things you may see include signatures left behind on the rocks from some of the first ever visitors, artifacts and monuments. Popular sites are the Giant’s Coffin, the Bottomless Pit and Mammoth Dome to name a few.
What will be covered
Table of Contents:
- Tickets
- Time
- Parking
- Where to meet/go
- What to wear
- Food
- Other things that will be addressed are pets, accessibility, restrooms and smoking
Know before you go
After entering the National Park, it will take a few minutes to get to the Mammoth Cave National Park Visitor Center where the Cave Tours start. Try to give yourself no less than 30 minutes from when you enter the National park till when your tour is scheduled to start.
This should give you enough time to get to the Visitor Center, find parking, get your physical tickets, use the restroom and get to your meeting point.
- Tickets – You must have a ticket to enter the cave. Try to purchase tickets online and in advance. During the tourist season, tours are known to sell out. If you did not get a chance to get tickets in advance you can still check availability in person. I will go more in depth on tour options further down this post.
- Time – Hours vary per tour. Most tours take about an hour. Times that are available for tour vary per tour, season and month. There is not a set clear schedule since tour availability depends on the season. When you book (there will be links below), you will get all the time options.
- Parking – Free parking is available outside the Visitor’s Center. There is room for campers and vans.
- Where to meet/go – When you enter the Visitor Center go straight to the ticket counter to get your physical tickets. Cave tours meet outside under either shelter A or B, the person at the ticket counter will tell you which shelter to meet at. To get to the shelters, go through the doors at the left side of the gift shop. Be there at least 5 minutes before your tour time. If you get out there early enough you can go through the outdoor gift shop or grab a snack.
- Clothing/Shoes/Backpack/Purse – Mammoth cave temperature stays about 50-54 degrees and is damp and wet. Because of this, you will want to wear a light jacket, possibly with a hood since caves tend to drip. Good walking shoes will come in handy for the stairs as well as keeping up with the tour group (it can more at a pretty brisk pace). You can wear a front pack but no front child backpack carriers are allowed. Strollers, tripods/monopods, walking sticks (other than a cane) or metal framed backpacks are not allowed. Backpacks must not be larger than your back.
- Food/Picnic – There is no food or drink allowed in the cave. There is also no restaurant on the grounds but there are snacks and drinks. Tables are available near the parking lot for picnics.
- Pets – No pets, other than service animals, are permitted in the caves or park buildings. Pets may be day boarded at the Lodge at Mammoth Cave. Proof of vaccination is required.
- Accessibility – A handicap tour is available using the Elevator Entrance. For those deaf or hard of hearing you can make arrangements for assisted listening devices and/or a sign language interpreter. On the Accessible Tour, wheelchairs, scooters and other assistive devices are allowed. Accessible restrooms are also available as well. The cave does not provide scooters/wheelchairs, if you need assistance you must bring your own. This is a 2 hour tour covering a half mile. Check with the Visitor Center the day of your visit for availability.
- Babies – Changing tables are available. Strollers/wagons cannot be taken into the cave.
- Stairs – Some tours have MANY stairs. If stairs are an issue be sure to pay attention to which tour you choose. Tour descriptions will list out exactly how many stairs you will have to climb. There are a few benches throughout the cave if you need a quick rest.
- Obstacles – Besides the stairs, during the Historic tour there is an area where you will walk down stairs and have to duck under a rock at the same time. Through “Fat Mans Misery” you will walk through a tight passage. Be sure to read carefully if obstacles are a concern.
- Restrooms – Restrooms are located in the visitor center and you can find porta-potties outside near the parking lot. There is a bathroom inside the cave about halfway through the Historic Tour. Though bathrooms are not available on all tours so be sure to check if this is a concern.
- Bikes – Bike racks can be found outside of the visitor center since the park is very bike friendly. You can read more about biking below.
- Guns – Firearms are prohibited by Federal law.
- Smoking – Smoking is prohibited, and vaping is NOT permitted in the cave.
Mammoth Cave Tours
There are many tours options. Before you purchase tickets be sure to thoroughly read the description. The selection of tours will change seasonally and with staff availability. There is a short tour, long tour, wheelchair accessible tour, lantern tour, choose your adventure!
Discovery Tour – self-guided tour
Move at your own pace on this Mammoth Cave Self Guided Tour. This is a self-guided tour version of the guided Mammoth Passage Tour and is not always offered. Call 270-758-2180 to check availability. Typically offered June and July between 10:00am and 2:00pm.
Duration: 0.5 hours
Distance: 0.75 miles (1.2 km)
Total Stairs: 135
Difficulty: Easy
Ages: All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: No
Tickets available for each tour time: Unlimited
Fees: $8 Adults, $6 Youth, $4 Senior Pass Holder, $4 Access Pass Holder.
Mammoth Passage
Not a fan of tight spaces? Have small children and want to limit the amount of walking? This is one of the best Mammoth Cave tours for families. Call the the Visitor Center at 270-758-2180 of the day to check availability. The link to make your selection and reservation is at the end of these tour descriptions.
Duration: 1.25 hours
Distance: 0.75 miles (1.2 km)
Total Stairs: 135
Difficulty: Easy
Ages: All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: No
Tickets available for each tour time: 70
Fees: $11 Adults, $9 Youth, $5.50 Senior Pass Holder, $5.50 Access Pass Holder
Gothic Avenue Tour
Rock formations resemble Gothic architecture and one of the earliest sites.
Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 1 miles (1.6 km)
Total Stairs: 170
Difficulty: Moderate
Ages: All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: No
Tickets available for each tour time: 40
Fees: $19 Adults, $15 Youth, $9.50 Senior Pass Holder, $9.50 Access Pass Holder.
Tickets: 40
Historic Tour
This is the tour we picked. It was fast paced but very informative. You will view historic areas that made the cave famous. There are tight spaces and lots of stairs on this one.
Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Total Stairs: 540, including 155 at Mammoth Dome
Difficulty: Moderate
Ages: All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: Yes
Tickets available for each tour time: 110
Fees: $20 Adults, $15 Youth, $10 Senior Pass Holder, $10 Access Pass Holder.
Violet City Lantern Tour
Explore only by lantern light! This three hour long tour is the true historic experience. Perfect for the more adventurous.
Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Total Stairs: 200 and numerous hills with no handrails.
Difficulty: Difficult
Ages: 6 years and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: No
Tickets available for each tour time: 38
Fees: $25 Adults, $20 Youth, $12.50 Senior Pass Holder, $12.50 Access Pass Holder
River Styx Cave Tour
For those most interested in geology. You will visit the river level so it can be muddy and slick. Wear hiking boots for this one. You will also use electric lanterns in parts.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
Total Stairs: Approximately 600, including 155 at Mammoth Dome.
Difficulty: Moderate
Ages: 6 year and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: Yes
Tickets available for each tour time: 40
Fees: $22 Adults, $16 Youth, $11 Senior Pass Holder, $11 Access Pass Holder.
Frozen Niagara Tour
One of the most popular and easiest tours.
Duration: 1.25 hours
Distance: 0.25 miles (0.4 km)
Total Stairs: 64, plus an optional 98
Difficulty: Easy
Ages: All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
Restrooms: No
Tickets available for each tour time: 34
Fees: $18 Adults, $14 Youth, $9 Senior Pass Holder, $9 Access Pass Holder.
Wild Cave Tour
The most EXTREME tour offered! An all-day underground adventure. For ages 16+ only. Chest and hip measurements cannot exceed 42 inches. That is how tight the crawlspaces are. There are other strict requirements and this tour is very limited.
Duration: 6 hours
Distance: 5 1/2 miles
Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
Ages: 16 and older
Fees: $66 Adults, N/A Youth, $33 Senior Pass Holder, $33 Access Pass Holder
Trog Tour
KIDS ONLY! Children ages 8-12 can hike through the forest, explorer the cave with a hard hat and headlamp. Hike, crawl and belly slide. The hard hat and headlamps will be provided as well as coveralls and kneepads.
Duration: 2.75 hours
Distance: 1 1/2 mile
Difficulty: Moderate
Ages: 8 – 12
Fees: N/A Adults, $25.00 Youth, $12.50 Special Access
For even more tour options and to schedule your visit, use this link: www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/cave-tours.htm
After your Tour
After your tour you will be lead back through the gift shop. There are actually two different gift shops with different items to purchase in each. Get you National Park Passport stamped in the gift shop by the main entrance/exit.
The gift shops have so many things to choose from in many different styles.
Mammoth Cave History
Prehistoric
The story of Mammoth Cave National Park begins millions of years ago, in the prehistoric seas of the Mississippian Era. Around 325 million years BCE, these ancient seas deposited layers of limestone deep beneath the Earth’s surface in what would eventually become the state of Kentucky.
Fast forward to 10 million years BCE. Rainwater begins a subtle yet transformative process, dissolving the limestone and carving the first passages of what would become known as Mammoth Cave.
Historic
In the 1790s, John Houchin, a bear hunter, stumbled upon the entrance to Mammoth Cave. This accidental discovery was the spark that would ignite a historical chain of events that eventually led to the cave’s fame.
The 1800s saw Mammoth Cave serve a variety of roles. It was mined for saltpeter, a vital component in gunpowder production, during the early 1800s. The profitability of this enterprise came at a steep cost in terms of danger and health. As a result, mining operations in Mammoth Cave were both lucrative and treacherous.
By the 1810s, Mammoth Cave was gaining recognition as a tourist destination. Its mysterious beauty and geological wonders drew visitors from near and far, establishing the cave as an attraction of regional significance.
The 1820s brought an interesting twist when Mammoth Cave was utilized as a tuberculosis sanatorium. Doctors of the time believed that the cave’s unique environment could offer relief to those suffering from the disease. However, this endeavor ultimately proved unsuccessful, and the sanatorium closed in 1910.
One of the most notable chapters in the cave’s history unfolded in the 1830s when Stephen Bishop, an enslaved man, became a famous cave guide. His knowledge and storytelling skills enriched the visitor experience and his legacy is still celebrated today.
In the early 1900s, Max Kämper added to our understanding of the cave system by creating a comprehensive map, shedding light on the vast underground network.
In 1926, Congress passed an Act to accept lands donated for the establishment of a national park. This marked the official beginning of Mammoth Cave National Park, which was formally established in 1941, making it a protected sanctuary for future generations to enjoy.
Present
In 1981, Mammoth Cave National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In 1990, the park was designated as an International Biosphere Reserve site
2021, it was certified an International Dark Sky Park. The Green and Nolin Rivers Blueway was designated as Kentucky’s first National Water Trail.
The park is continuously researching and studying endangered species, ecosystems, environmental factors, wildland fires, geology, plants and so much more.
Research at Mammoth Cave has led to significant discoveries in geology, hydrology, speleology, archaeology, biology, and microbiology.
You can learn more about nature in the park: www.nps.gov/maca/learn/nature/
Learn more about the science and research: www.nps.gov/maca/learn/scienceresearch
Want to Learn Even More?
In the Visitor Center is the park’s museum where you can check out exhibits on the history and geology and watch a short film about the exploration of Mammoth Cave.
Things to do in Mammoth Cave National Park
With almost 53,000 acres, there is something for almost everyone. Visit the cave year round to really experience the variety of experiences, wildlife and adventure.
On the rivers
There are two rivers that run through the park. Spanning more than 30 miles, the Green River and the Nolan River offer many recreational options. Personal Floatation Devices are required to be worn while on the rivers and alcohol is not prohibited.
Canoeing, Kayaking and Boating
There are private canoe and kayak rental businesses that are in the park. Caveland Kayak and Canoe, Green River Canoeing and Mammoth Cave Canoe and Kayak.
A river access point can be found inside the park, on the south side of the Green River. The other is outside the park, on the Nolin River at the Tailwater Recreation Area.
Learn more about the rivers, each access point and get some trip ideas on the park’s website. www.nps.gov
Fishing
The Green River is home to more that 150 fish species. No fishing license? No problem, it is not required within the park’s boundaries. There are of course some regulations you must follow. You can find out about those here: www.nps.gov/fishing
On the trails
With over 80 miles of Mammoth Cave trails and 60 miles of backcountry trails, there is room for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.
Horseback Riding
The wooded backcountry trails are great for all ages and skill levels. Bring your own horse or leave it at home, either way, Double J Riding Stables and Campground has you covered.
If you are traveling with your horse and trailer, there are 5 trailheads where you can park your trailer.
There are camping options available for the overnight horseback riders. Maple Springs Campground is just 5 miles from the visitor center. They have specific sites set aside just for you and your horse.
Want a more rugged camping experience? Ride your horse through the backcountry and camp at one of 13 designated campsites. Find more info on this and the permits required from Backcountry and Riverside Camping.
Mammoth Cave National Park Hiking
Hiking Mammoth Cave National Park is one great way to see this beautiful park. There are two main trail options, the Backcountry trails and the Visitor Center and South Side Trails. Find more trails off the main roadway.
The Visitor Center trails are the more leisurely and do not limit the things you will see. On these 7.2 miles of trials you have the opportunity to see springs, river views, a historic train engine, cemeteries and more.
South Side trails offer about 11 miles and 9 forested trails. Trails range from .1 to 5.1 miles.
Backcountry trails are the most rugged. You can hike through and along valleys, forest ridges and rivers. There are 30 different trails ranging from .1 to 8.6 miles. Be properly prepared before going on your hike.
Biking
Biking is available for off-road bikes, traditional bikes, as well as e-bikes. All are welcome to explore the park’s diverse trails and roadways. Park roadways can be used for both traditional and electric bikes, providing various options for cyclists to enjoy the surroundings. Additionally, off-road bikes have the option to traverse unpaved roads, enhancing the biking experience for those seeking an adventurous route.
Big Hallow Trail is the most recommend for mountain biking and just over 9 miles long.
The park is included in 2 US Bicycle Routes (USBRS) the connect rural and urban communities by posted roads and trails. The TransAmerica Bicycle Route, USBR 76 and Cave Country Bicycle Route, USBR 23.
The USBR 76 is 4,228 miles in length, passing through 10 states. USBR 23 is 109 miles and goes to the Tennessee border.
Get a Mammoth Cave map on the NPS (the National Park Service) app, at the visitor center or download here: www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/maps
Star Gazing
Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the best places for star gazing. It is a great way to end the day and relax. Find an open area away from light sources and you should have no problem spotting plenty of stars.
Night Sky Programs are offered at the park. These are ranger-lead programs with the opportunity to use telescopes. There is even a program for the Junior stargazer.
Mammoth Cave Camping
Looking to camp at Mammoth Cave? There are a few Mammoth Cave camping options. You can choose to do traditional camping or go a bit more adventurous and camp in the backcountry.
Three campgrounds can be found close to the visitor center. Additionally, common camping amenities, such as laundry, showers, and supplies, are offered.
Furthermore, the park has 13 backcountry and riverside camping sites that are primitive and offer no amenities, other than maybe a fire ring. These sites can be reached only by horseback, hiking, or from the river. You can find maps at the Visitor Center or Mammoth Cave Campground.
All options require a permit
Mammoth Cave Campground
This is where you will find your RV Camping sites, accessible campsites, group and tent campsites. Rangers are on duty to assist with the 111 traditional campsites.
https://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/macacampground.htm
Lodging at Mammoth Cave
The Lodge at Mammoth Cave
Mammoth Cave cabins can be found across from the Visitor Center, The Lodge offers bike rentals, dinning, shopping and beautifully decorated and finished cabin style lodging.
Cottages and Terraces with mini fridge, coffee maker, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, and microwave are available.
Camping Near Mammoth Cave National Park
Camping options can be found outside the park as well. Here are 2 recommendations within 15 miles of the visitors center.
Maple Springs Campground
With more secluded sites, large groups and campers with horses may enjoy this campground a little more. All sites have electric and water hook ups for RVs. www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/maplespringscg
Houchin Ferry Campground
Located just 15 miles from the visitor center and 2 miles east of Bowling Green Kentucky. Open year round with 12 tent only campsites. This site is more rugged with only potable water and portable toilets available.
Here you can find directions and more info on camping at Houchin Ferry: https://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/houchinferrycg.htm
Hotels Near Mammoth Cave
While normal hotel options in the area are available, here are a few that offer a different experience.
Grand Victorian Inn – Charming Adult only Inn
5 Old Dixie Hwy
Park City, KY 42160
www.grandvictorianinnky.com
Serenity Hill Bed & Breakfast – Mile from the park, kid friendly and free breakfast
3600 Mammoth Cave Rd
Brownsville, KY 42210
www.serenityhillbedandbreakfast.com
The Maple Retreat – kid friendly, modern cabin style
1 Jagni Lp
Park City, KY 42160
www.themapleretreat.com
Things to do in Mammoth Cave Kentucky
Besides hiking, camping, biking and cave exploring, you can also get some ATVing in!
Blue Holler Off-road Park – An ATV recreation park
1494 Ollie Rd
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
Phone: (270) 286-6295
Things to do Near Mammoth Cave National Park
There are many things to do around Mammoth Cave. This is a fun area with roadside attractions and many things to do with the family. Here are a couple ideas.
Diamond Caverns – Said the be Kentucky’s most beautiful cave
1900 Mammoth Cave Pkwy
Park City, KY 42160
www.diamondcaverns.com
National Corvette Museum – See the progression and story of the Corvette with around 70 Corvettes in one place
350 Corvette Dr
Bowling Green, KY 42101
www.corvettemuseum.org
Read More about the National Corvette Museum
Mammoth Valley Park – action park with zip lines, alpine slide and more fun activities
3061 Mammoth Cave Rd
Cave City, KY 42127
mammothvalleypark.com
Dinosaur World – Life size dinosaur statues, kid and dog friendly
711 Mammoth Cave Rd
Cave City, KY 42127
dinosaurworld.com/kentucky
Top Tips for Visiting Mammoth Cave
- Read tour descriptions thoroughly and purchase in advance
- Arrive to the park no less than 30 minutes prior to tour start time
- Wear good hiking or walking shoes and a light hooded jacket
- Use the restroom just in case your tour does not have one
- Eat before you arrive or pack a lunch
Hope you are ready for your next adventure
Plan your trip at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Thank you for reading, glad you were here!
Information on this page is in thanks to Mammoth Cave National Park website https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm and personal experience. Remember to also check the park’s website for alerts, park closures and non-emergency alerts.
