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The Green Adventures

Things to do in Mammoth Cave

Every hike and activity the park service lists for Mammoth Cave National Park, with how long it takes, when to go and whether dogs can come.

A long staircase travels down a slope into the dark cave opening.
The Historic Entrance to Mammoth Cave has welcomed explorers for centuries. Photo: NPS Photo/ Thomas DiGiovannangelo

Hikes and walks (2)

Hike What it is Time, season, pets
Explore Wildflowers at Cedar Sink Stunning rock faces, cave springs, and geological panoramas, you will experience a wide array of seasonal wildflowers and biodiversity. 45 to 60 Minutes · Spring, Summer, Fall · Pets OK
Take a Ridge-top Walk to Sunset Point Visitors to Mammoth Cave National Park Marvel over the Green River Valley while visiting the popular overlook, Sunset Point. 30 to 60 Minutes · All year · Pets OK

Other things to do (15)

Activity What it is Time, season, pets
Cave Tours Join a ranger as you discover the complex history and intricate geology of the worlds longest cave system. 1 to 6 Hours · All year · No pets · Reservation needed · Fee
Become a Mammoth Cave Junior Ranger Do you want to explore, learn about, and protect Mammoth Cave? If so, become a Mammoth Cave Junior Ranger! The Junior Ranger activity book is appropriate for all ages and is a great way to get more in-depth knowledge about the world’s longest cave and to learn about the natural wonders of the park. All year · Pets OK
Viewing Park Wildlife Mammoth Cave is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life ranging from rare exotic cave species to more common woodland creatures. While viewing wildlife can be a highlight of any park visit, it is important to remember that animals in the park are wild. Precautions must be taken to keep not only you, but the wil All year · Pets OK
Attend a Ranger-led Program Attending a ranger-led program in the park is a great way to discover new things and learn more about the Mammoth Cave National Park. 10 to 60 Minutes · All year · Pets OK
Houchin Ferry to Brownsville This short trip travels along the Green River from Houchin Ferry inside Mammoth Cave National Park to the former site of Lock and Dam #6 or the Brownsville boat ramp. 90 to 120 Minutes · Summer · Pets OK
Nolin River Dam to Houchin Ferry This trip starts at the Tailwater Recreation Area below the Nolin River Dam north of the park. 4 to 6 Hours · Summer · Pets OK
Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry This longer section of the Green River is less traveled then the popular Dennison Ferry to Green River Ferry trip. 4 to 6 Hours · Summer · Pets OK
Dennison Ferry to Green River Ferry This popular river trip takes paddlers from the Dennison Ferry Day Use Area to the Green River Ferry. 150 to 240 Minutes · Summer · Pets OK
River Safety and Regulations Safety is your responsibility. Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable river trip. Summer · Pets OK
Planning Your River Trip Over 30 miles of the Green and Nolin Rivers trace through the Mammoth Cave National Park and offer a wealth of recreational opportunities. Summer · Pets OK
Explore the park on Horseback Mammoth Cave National Park is an exceptional destination for anyone who loves to see the world from the back of a horse. All year · Pets OK
See the Stars Since prehistoric times, humans have looked up at the night sky and pondered the wonders of the universe. People have used the stars and planets to navigate, keep track of time, and to connect with other cultures. Regardless of your reason, Mammoth Cave National Park provides an ideal place for stargazing. All year · Pets OK
Ride the Big Hollow Trail Explore the north side of the park on your mountain bike on the only mountain bike trail in the park. All year · Pets OK
Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail Originally opened in 1886 the Mammoth Cave Railroad brought early tourists to Mammoth Cave and other neighboring caves in the area. Today, a portion of the path of the former Mammoth Cave Railroad has been converted into a 9-mile hike and bike trail. All year · Pets OK
Road Biking For visitors wishing to travel to Mammoth Cave National Park on two wheels instead of four, the park roadways offer miles of scenic and forested landscape to enjoy on the ride. All year · No pets

Before you set out

Trail conditions change with snow, fire and storms. Check the park’s current alerts, carry the ten essentials and read know before you go.

Sources

Last checked 1 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hikes in Mammoth Cave?
Popular hikes the park service lists include Explore Wildflowers at Cedar Sink, Take a Ridge-top Walk to Sunset Point.
Can I bring my dog on trails in Mammoth Cave?
Pets: of the 2 hikes the park service lists here, 2 allow pets. Where pets are allowed they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.