Mammoth Cave National Park lies in Kentucky, in the United States, with its main address at 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway in the community of Mammoth Cave. It is built around the cave that gives the park its name, and it draws visitors who want to see one of the largest underground landscapes known anywhere.
The cave system is the world's longest known, with more than 400 miles of surveyed passageways. Those figures describe only the parts that have been mapped so far, so much of the underground network remains a matter of exploration rather than certainty. The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which recognises its outstanding natural value.
What a visit involves
Most people experience the cave on a guided tour. Rangers lead groups through the passages, and the tours vary in length and in how far underground they go, so it is worth choosing one that suits your stamina and interests. Above ground, the park offers hiking trails through its wooded landscape, giving a different view of the terrain that sits over the cave.
Planning your trip
- Book tours in advance where you can, since group sizes are limited.
- Wear sturdy footwear and bring a layer, as cave temperatures stay cool all year.
- Allow time for both a cave tour and some walking on the surface.
- For questions before you travel, the park can be reached by phone at +1-270-758-2180.
Visitors who plan a full day can combine a cave tour with a walk along one of the park's trails, making the most of both the underground and the surface landscape.