Mammoth Caves National Park, KY

In 2012 we visited Mammoth Caves National Park which is located near Cave City, Kentucky. However, at that time I was unable to explore the subterranean world of endless caves. Fast forward 12 years, we are back and I'm determined to venture into the abyss better know as Mammoth Caves. I have a one day window to explore as much of this underground paradise as I can so I chose the guided cave tour Domes and Dripstones as it focuses on natural formations of the cave namely stalactites and stalagmites. The tour includes the entire Frozen Niagara Tour and a small portion of the Grand Avenue Tour. Susan opted to stay home, as she is not fond of caves, tunnels, or tight spaces. I found this out the hard way.

Duration: 2 hours

Distance: 0.75 miles or 1.2 km walk

Total steps: 640 including 280 steps on initial descent and an optional 96 more

Mammoth Cave National Park is located in southcentral Kentucky and is  home to the longest cave system in the world. The rolling hills covers over 52,000 acres offering up a plethora of activities including hiking, camping, boating, and so much more. Currently, there are over 425 miles of passageways that have been surveyed. It became a national park on 1 July 1941, named a World Heritage Site in 1981, and an International Biosphere Reserve in 1990.

The Domes and Dripstones tour starts with a 10 minute bus ride from the visitors center to the new entrance. Departing from the bus we descend into a rather deep sinkhole to the cave entrance. At the unimpressive entrance the ranger gives a short talk on what is to be expected.

As soon as I entered, I immediately descended into the depths of the cave. The passageways are so narrow you must turn sideways or bend down to get through. The constant 12C or 54F temperature is felt immediately.

Nearing the end of the tour their is a formation called the Frozen Niagara. At this point one can stay up top or take the optional 96 stairs down for a closer look. Of course I went further into the abyss.

The tour ended with a short bus ride back to the visitors center and me wanting a little more. However, I wanted to tour the grounds and see the old entrance to the cave. So I opted to hike the grounds.

Old entrance