Mammoth Cave National Park is truly fascinating, and it also preserves the world’s longest known cave system.

Entry to the National Park is free, but there is an entrance fee for the cave. There are many different guided cave tours to choose from. Each one differs in length and substance. There are long tours and short tours, lantern tours, adventurous crawling tours, and more.  It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance as they often sell out.

I do not remember which tour we took when we visited this past summer, although it definitely included the Frozen Niagara. It was an excellent all-around tour, appropriate for the variety of ages in our group.

Our tour started outside Visitor’s Center where we met our guide, who was extremely knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. He kept us on our toes throughout the tour. 

Once our guide finished giving us an introduction and the history of both the cave and the National Park, we boarded a bus which took us to the entrance of the cave. This was a stone building that resembled a bunker. The cave was chilly when we entered, even though it was August. Photography is allowed in the cave only without a flash. 

There are two entrances that are used for tours at Mammoth Cave. Once we entered our guide explained the background of the cave and the area we were in. The tour we took us through an area with fascinating formations. We made our way through the cave, stopping often to hear explanations from our guide. The grand finale was the huge Frozen Niagara formation which we saw before heading back along the way we’d come, and out of the cave.

Please be advised that strollers are prohibited in the cave and large backpacks are also not allowed. A front child carrier can be used but not one worn on the back.

Posted: February 12, 2023

Information, prices and hours posted here are current as of the posted or updated date. It is advisable to call ahead or check online to confirm hours and prices.