Mammoth Cave: The History, The Adventure and The Wonder!

Mammoth Cave National Park

With almost a 400 mile labyrinth of geologic wonders awaiting visitors, it comes as no surprise that droves of people come here each year. Although it surely is the highlight attraction for many visitors, there's more to Mammoth Cave National Park than just the cave. What's most fascinating to some visitors is the rich history of Mammoth Cave, particularly those who really enjoy old legends and folklore of early Americana. Visiting Mammoth Cave National Park lets one get a real feel for those old days and have their own type of Indiana Jones experience. Here, one can take a thrilling cave tour, take a horseback ride, and hike the woods and explore the wonderful nature and scenery of this fabulous Kentucky destination all in one day.

History of Mammoth Cave National Park

As the most extensive cave system in the entire world, one can only anticipate that more than a few thrilling stories must lie behind its rich history and Mammoth Cave is no exception. Humans roamed these lands and caves more than 6000 years ago in the prehistoric Mississippian Age, and many native remains have been discovered in this and the surrounding cave systems over the year. Most of these 'mummies' were intentionally buried here, with exception to "lost John" who was found in 1935. He seems to have been crushed by a boulder and couldn't undergo the native's traditional pre-Columbian funerary practices.

Other evidence of the native's fascination with Mammoth Cave is indicated by the discovery of gourds, mussel shells, cane torches, moccasin slippers and other useful items found within the Salts Cave section along Fling Ridge. Surely, the cave was superior shelter and protection from wild animals and opposing tribes; hence, how they survived here so long.

Beginning in the late 1700s, Mammoth Cave was passed along and purchased many times and had many owners over the next 150 years or so. In 1838, the cave was sold to Franklin Gorin, a slave owner, who intended to make money by exploiting the cave to tourist. The most famous of these slaves was Stephen Bishop, who served as the cave's tour guide in the 1840s and 1850s. Eventually, he drew up extensive maps of the enormous cave system and gave many of the features their current names.

Ultimately, the cave system and the forests around it caught the interest of wealthy Kentuckians, who formed a committee in 1926 in effort to convert the region into a national park. A big impediment to the park's creation was the fact that many people called these lands home and didn't want to sacrifice their homestead for land preservation. Ultimately, many lands were donated while thousands of people were forcibly removed through imminent domain.

However, the residents here wouldn't go lightly or easily.. Underpaid for their lands and out of a home, some resentment for these actions seems to carry on within the region's residents today, as the generations of Kentuckians don't forget easily.

Activities at Mammoth Cave National Park

There are about 70 miles of groomed trails with the 53,000 acres of Mammoth Cave's forests, many accessible to those on horseback. Most trails are on the northern side of the park and head out straight from the Visitor's Center where the seasonal ranger led programs take place at Mammoth National Park.

The Green Bluffs River Trail is a 3.2-mile trek to an overlook of Green Bridge. This path crosses with the River Styx Hiking Trail for those looking to veer off on another worthwhile venture, and one can also head off to Echo River Springs Trail or climb Heritage Trail to see Sunset Point. One of the longer but still moderately easy hiking trails in Mammoth Cave National Park is the nature-filled 10-mile hike at Sal Hollow & Buffalo Trail where there are sinkholes, springs, and the wild cave is there, too. Wild Cave Tours are offered by the Park's headquarters seasonally.

There's plenty more to do beyond hiking, and seeing the old railroad engines on display is a train enthusiasts dream. These workhorses were a vital part of the cave and park's early history. River rafting and fishing are favorite Mammoth National Park activities along the Green River.

Lodging at Mammoth Cave National Park

Finding pet-friendly lodging in Mammoth Cave National Park couldn't get any easier than choosing the one and only Mammoth Cave Hotel. Just minutes from the entrance to the cave and steps from the massive acreage teeming with wildlife, The Mammoth Cave Hotel offers comfortable hotel rooms and private cottages year round. Choose from three onsite dining options or enjoy additional options in adjacent communities.

Those looking for budget Mammoth Cave National Park lodging without sacrificing quality will appreciate the Best Western Kentucky Inn. All-ground floor rooms are convenient to the spacious outdoor pool and just a block from downtown Cave City.