Mammoth Cave National Park, a Half-Day Drive from Great Smoky
Steer away from the crowds at America’s most visited national park by going underground in the world's longest cave in nearby Kentucky.
Tucked in the hills of southern central Kentucky lies Mammoth Cave National Park. While it’s the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles explored, its visitation numbers don’t compare to nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the number one visited national park in the country. Mammoth Cave is 239 miles from Gatlinburg, Tenn., on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is just under a five hour drive.
Cave Tours at Mammoth Cave
Ranger-led tours are seasonal, so check the park website at www.nps.gov/maca/ to see what types of tours will take place when you will be visiting. While reservations are not required, they are strongly encouraged as tours often sell out. All tours require tickets.
Bike and Paddle Above Mammoth Cave
You don’t need to spend all your time inside the Earth. Bring your bike and cycle on the park roads or designated paths. Head out and explore some of the 30 miles of the Green and Nolin rivers that cut through the park. Catfish, bass, perch and other game fish await for fishing opportunities. Or rent a canoe or kayak in town at one of the park’s three recommended outfitters (www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/canoe-and-kayak-outfitters.htm) and and explore the park by river and camp on islands.
Getting There
Mammoth Cave National Park officials warn that GPS and online map services have taken people in the wrong direction, forcing them to spend miles rerouting. Others report their online mapping systems or devices have directed them to take the long way to the park via the park’s north side that requires a river crossing by ferry. Don’t be late for your tour because your online directions sent you the wrong way. Look at a printed map to scout out your route ahead of time.
Learn more at www.nps.gov/maca