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Best trails in Mammoth Cave National Park

Best trails in Mammoth Cave National Park

4.2(14,381 reviews)

·

United States
: 
#39 of 60 national parks

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Mammoth Cave National Park protects the world’s longest known cave system with over 426 miles of mapped passages winding through karst landscape above ground of rolling hills, sinkholes, rivers and forests. Aboveground, more than 80 miles of trails including accessible Heritage and Echo River Spring loops wind past historic entrances, springs, railroad relics and river vistas. Ranger-led cave tours, from easy to rugged. Begin at the visitor center, which provides parking, exhibits and trip planning. Wildlife includes deer, bats, river otters, mussels, salamanders and many cave species.

Top trails

  1. #1 - Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail
    4.5(2820)
    •Moderate
    •4.4 mi
    •Est. 2–2.5 hr
    This beautiful trail leads from the picnic area down to the Green River along the bluffs. It's a broad path, making it easy to navigate even when crowded. There are many scenic viewpoints along this route and interesting geological features to explore. This is a perfect trail for families to enjoy together.
  2. #2 - Dixon Cave, Green River Bluffs, and River Styx Spring Loop
    4.5(1806)
    •Moderate
    •1.6 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This trail highlights several points of interest in the area, such as the Mammoth Cave Historic Entrance, Dixon Cave, Green River Bluffs, and a spur trail leading to the River Styx Spring. The trail starts at the visitor center and winds through a lovely forest alongside the Green River. Access to Dixon Cave is restricted to prevent the spread of white-nose syndrome.
  3. #3 - Green River Bluffs and Heritage Loop
    4.6(1495)
    •Moderate
    •2.4 mi
    •Est. 1–1.5 hr
    A well-maintained trail runs along more developed pathways in many places, making it relatively easy to navigate. There are some inclines in a few areas that will get your heart rate up. The Green River side is more remote and a bit more challenging. The Heritage trail is nestled in beautiful woods with hidden caves below ground. The views are all great, although the dense vegetation makes them hard to see in the summer months.
  4. #4 - Echo River Spring and Sinkhole Loop
    4.5(888)
    •Moderate
    •2.6 mi
    •Est. 1–1.5 hr
    This trail passes by two springs and leads to the banks of the Styx River, before returning to the main trail. The trail is moderately inclined and heavily wooded, connecting the River Styx Trail to the Mammoth Dome Sink Trail. The trailhead is located at the south side of the Green River Ferry, and there is a small parking lot available for use.
  5. #5 - Cedar Sink Trail
    4.6(1312)
    •Easy
    •1.5 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    The trail is a short out-and-back hike that leads to a viewpoint of Cedar Sink, a natural landmark shaped over centuries by the Cedar Creek. This is an ideal trail for those seeking scenic views and an opportunity to learn more about the geology of the area. The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it suitable for the whole family.
  6. #6 - Sand Cave Trail
    4.4(526)
    •Easy
    •0.3 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This is a short path to a cave with an interesting history. A very nice Mammoth Cave National Park sign is next to the parking lot and it would be a good place for a picture if you want one. According to wheelchairtraveling.com: This overlook is classified as a trail at the park, but is really more of an overlook. The one-direction trail takes just a few minutes through the hardwood forest to reach the viewing platform to the entrance of the Sand Cave. Information and benches are provided on...
  7. #7 - Echo River and River Styx Springs Trail
    4.5(278)
    •Easy
    •3.2 mi
    •Est. 1–1.5 hr
    The trail starts at a small parking lot just before the Green River Ferry. It follows a long section of boardwalk and a flat forest trail that leads to a major trail junction at the bottom of the main path, which passes the main Mammoth Cavern entrance. When you reach the junction, take the trail to the right at 3 o’clock (as you approach). This gravel trail goes uphill, past the cave entrance, to the Welcome Center.
  8. #8 - Sinkhole Trail
    4.3(311)
    •Easy
    •2.6 mi
    •Est. 1–1.5 hr
    This trail runs adjacent to the Mammoth Dome Sinkhole. It is a well-maintained hiking path with a moderate uphill slope. The path begins as a paved trail, eventually transitioning into a gravel path and then a standard dirt trail with protruding rocks. The trail loops back around once it intersects with the Echo River Springs Trail.
  9. #9 - Mammoth Cave Rail Trail
    4.5(503)
    •Moderate
    •16.0 mi
    •Est. 5.5–6.5 hr
    This is a multi-use hike and bike trail along a wide gravel path. It is well-maintained and features quick stops with informational plaques to educate visitors about the local history of the area. The Valley Overlook and Sloans Crossing offer beautiful views. If you're seeking a long, peaceful stroll, then this trail is perfect for you.
  10. #10 - Echo River Springs Trail
    4.5(181)
    •Easy
    •0.7 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This paved loop provides access to many different trail users and includes tactile, audio, and braille interpretive features throughout the route. The trail travels through a beautiful forest with scenic views at overlooks. Echo River springs are visible along the way, and there is a variety of wildlife and wildflowers to admire as well. Accessibility: This trail is likely accessible for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers. Accessible Parking: Number of designated...
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Visitor info

Hours & contact
Open 24 hours
Passes & fees
No fee required
Accessibility
General park hours
Every day • Open 24 hours
Exceptions
Columbus Day Holiday Closure
Oct 13, 2026 • Closed
Veterans Day Holiday Closure
Nov 11, 2025 • Closed
Thanksgiving Holiday Closure
Nov 27, 2025 • Closed
Christmas Holiday Closure
Dec 25, 2025 • Closed
Phone
(270) 758-2180
Entrance fee

There is no fee to enter Mammoth Cave National Park. However, there are fees associated with cave tours, camping, and shelter rentals. For detailed information related to the fees for these activities, please visit our Fees and Passes webpage.

Entrance pass

The park accepts the America the Beautiful Interagency Senior LIfetime and Senior Annual Passes, as well as, the Access Pass. These passes will provide a 50% discount on cave tour tickets for the cardholder only. The passes will also provide a 50% discount for camping provided the reservation is in the cardholder's name. No discounts are provided for shelters.

Annual pass
All U.S. national parks

Join millions of people who enjoy our National Parks with the "America the Beautiful" National Park & Federal Recreational Lands Pass, otherwise known as the Interagency Annual Pass. The pass is valid for a year's worth of visits from the month of purchase at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country.

$80
Purchase pass
Overview

Mammoth Cave National Park does not charge an entrance fee, but the Interagency Access Pass allows pass holders to receive a 50% discount on other park amenities, such as camping.

The Visitor Center and Caver's Camp Store are accessible to visitors using mobility equipment or strollers and have wheelchair accessible restrooms. Orientation films include closed captioning.

Assistive listening devices, audio descriptions, tactile exhibits, and Braille and text materials are available. Some ranger-led programs are wheelchair accessible, and assistive listening devices and ASL interpreters are available by reservation. Please call (270) 758-2417 at least 2 weeks in advance to make a reservation for interpretation services.

Additional information about accessibility at Mammoth Cave National Park can be found on their website: https://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.

Facilities

The Visitor Center and Caver's Camp Store are accessible to visitors using mobility equipment or strollers and have wheelchair accessible restrooms. Orientation films include closed captioning.

The Lodge at Mammoth Cave has wheelchair accessible rooms.

The Mammoth Cave, Echo River Springs Trailhead, and Sloan’s Pond Crossing Trailhead Picnic Areas are wheelchair accessible with packed, level paths and surfaces.

Camping

Mammoth Cave Campground has 2 individual wheelchair accessible camping sites (#37 and #38).

Service animals

Service animals must be on-leash throughout the park.

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Guides

in Mammoth Cave National Park
Top Picks in Mammoth Cave National Park
8 trails
in Mammoth Cave National Park
Hidden Gems in Mammoth Cave National Park
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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Mammoth Cave National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Mammoth Cave National Park is Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail, which has a 4.5 star rating from 2,820 reviews. This trail is 4.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 557 ft.

What is the longest trail in Mammoth Cave National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Mammoth Cave National Park is First Creek, McCoy Hollow, and Wet Prong Loop. This trail is estimated to be 16.2 mi long.

How many trails are in Mammoth Cave National Park?

There are 40 trails in Mammoth Cave National Park. These trails have an average 4.2-star rating from 14,381 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Mammoth Cave National Park?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Mammoth Cave National Park has you covered. First Creek, McCoy Hollow, and Wet Prong Loop boasts the most elevation gain with 1,879 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Mammoth Creek First Creek Trail, which will get you 1,656 ft of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Mammoth Cave National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 11 camping trails in Mammoth Cave National Park and the most popular is Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail with an average 4.5 star rating from 2,820 community reviews.

Are there running trails available in Mammoth Cave National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 22 running trails in Mammoth Cave National Park and the most popular is Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole and Heritage Trail with an average 4.5 star rating from 2,820 community reviews.

Are there biking trails available in Mammoth Cave National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 5 biking trails in Mammoth Cave National Park and the most popular is Mammoth Cave Rail Trail with an average 4.5 star rating from 503 community reviews.

What are the best summer hikes in Mammoth Cave National Park?

What are the best winter hikes in Mammoth Cave National Park?

What are the best spring hikes in Mammoth Cave National Park?

Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Mammoth Cave National Park?

Yes, there is one trail with a scenic mountain peak view in Mammoth Cave National Park: Nolin and Green Rivers Paddle.

Are there any trails with cliffs in Mammoth Cave National Park?

Yes, there is one trail with a cliff in Mammoth Cave National Park: Cedar Sink Trail.

Are there any trails with rivers in Mammoth Cave National Park?

Yes, there are 10 trails with rivers in Mammoth Cave National Park, including Collie Ridge Loop, Maple Springs, Raymer Hollow Trail, and Mill Branch Trail Loop, Wet Prong Trail, Blair Spring Trail, and Raymer Hollow Trail.

Are there any trails with caves in Mammoth Cave National Park?

Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Mammoth Cave National Park?

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