Hiking To This Above Ground Cave In Kentucky Will Give You A Surreal Experience
By Jenn Shockley|Published June 13, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
As summer nears, we tend to start on our list of fun things to do, like taking a hike to an above ground cave in Kentucky. One renowned place to do this is the historic Mammoth Cave National Park. Not only is it known for having over 400 miles of cave passages, but it also has some amazing hiking trails with breathtaking views. If you haven’t considered taking a trip to Mammoth Cave already, you might want to consider adding it to your bucket list for the season.
If you are looking to really get in touch with nature, the back country trails are a great place to start. There are 6 trailheads beginning at Maple Springs, Big Hollow, First Creek, White Oak, Temple Hill and Lincoln.
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Big Hollow Trail is the only one that allows mountain bikes.
All the back country tails are horseback and pedestrian use only, other than Big Hollow. If you are looking for a place to enjoy a biking adventure in nature, roll up to Big Hollow and you’ll find perfection.
The front country trails cover a total of 10.8 miles. These are a little less rural than the back country, but offer beautiful views and a peaceful environment. The front country trails are Cedar Sink Trail, Sloan’s Crossing Pond Walk, Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail and the Sand Cave Trail.
At the visitors center, hikers will find around 7.2 miles of beautiful trails leading from the river to the top of the ridge. This area leads visitors by the Old Guide’s cemeteries, past springs, sinkholes, and breathtaking overlooks.
Each one of the trails offers its own unique environment. Visitors will find peace and quiet, along with the soft sounds of Mother Nature. The babbling brooks and wind whispering through the leaves provides an overall feeling of bliss for nature enthusiasts.
The cave system and surrounding area has seen its share of death and battles. Upon the discovery of the land, it became desirable more for its salt peter than its amazing scenery and ambiance. Once the salt peter became less sought after, the true beauty of Mammoth Cave was discovered.
These caves were once more of a haven instead of an attraction.
The Natives would use these caves as shelter during their hunts, and also to hide from soldiers during times of war. The caves made a great spot to rest and regroup, especially the entrances along the river.
The cave system was initially mapped by a slave named Stephen Bishop, who was later freed and remained on the property. He and his associates would travel in the darkness with only candles and lanterns to light their paths in the treacherous, uncharted areas. They worked hard to find their way and did an amazing job of helping Mammoth Cave become the well-known attraction it is today. At one point, there was even a small train that transported visitors to a cave tour mapped by Bishop.
Mammoth Cave is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the United States and is a beautiful part of Kentucky. It has been featured on several television specials over the years, including CBS Sunday Morning.
This historic tourist spot is the number 1 attraction in Kentucky. Mammoth Cave National Park has history, amazing scenery, and plenty of mystery. All those things add up to make it a very interesting attraction to visit. Hiking, biking and horseback riding around the renowned above ground cave in Kentucky is quite the experience, and one you won’t want to miss. Have you ever been hiking at Mammoth Cave? What is your favorite trail to take?
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