Ages 14+
4 - 8 hours
9-18 miles
Originally opened in 1886, the Mammoth Cave Railroad brought early tourists to Mammoth Cave and other neighboring caves in the area. The train line continued its service for 45 years and made its final run on August 1, 1931.
Today, a portion of the path of the former Mammoth Cave Railroad has been converted into a 9-mile hike and bike trail. This trail will be accessed from the Mammoth Cave visitor center and finish up at Bell’s Tavern Park. Along the trail, cyclists can stop at historic sites, interpretive waysides, and scenic overlooks.
All ages and experience levels are welcome! Camping permits are available at Mammoth Cave Visitor’s Center.
The type of canoeing and the best trip change with the water levels. Since all canoeing rivers are fairly small streams, conditions can change rapidly. Generally speaking, the water tends to be somewhat higher and faster in the spring and early summer or after periods of substantial rainfall.