More About Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave National Park was established to preserve the cave system, including Mammoth Cave, the scenic river valleys of the Green and Nolin rivers, and a section of south central Kentucky. This is the longest recorded cave system in the world with more than 336 miles explored and mapped.

Designations

Schedule varies by season. Call for current information. Closed December 25.National Park - July 1, 1941
World Heritage Site - October 27, 1981
International Biosphere Reserve - September 26, 1990
Operating Hours, Seasons Getting There

PLANE - Regular flights into Louisville or Nashville, each approx. 1.5 hours from the park.

CAR - If you travel south from Lousiville, KY, the most direct route is I-65 south to Exit 53 at Cave City. Another 15 minutes of driving will bring you to the park visitor center.
If you travel north from Nashville, TN, the most direct route is I-65 north to Exit 48 at Park City, KY. Another 10 minutes of driving will bring you to the park visitor center. Nashville and the park are both in the Central Time Zone. Louisville is in the Eastern Time Zone, one hour ahead of the park.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION - Bus service stops in Cave City, KY. Weather & Climate

Summers are hot and sultry with highs in the 80s to 90s. Winters are mild with highs in the 30s to 40s, although temperatures can drop well below zero. Temperatures in the cave hover around 54°F year-round, so bring a light jacket if you plan to visit the cave. Accessibility

Sloan's Crossing Pond Trail; Heritage Trail; Evening Programs; auditorium programs

Getting Around

You may travel by car to most places in the park. In the backcountry, you may hike, ride horseback, and in limited areas, ride a mountain bike. You may canoe down 27 miles of the Green and Nolin Rivers.