Edmonson Co.
When you start with the world’s longest cave system, things can only go up from there. Edmonson County is home to a host of natural wonders.
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Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park was established on July 1, 1941 to preserve the region's extensive cave systems, the scenic river valleys of the Green and Nolin Rivers, and a section of south central Kentucky's hill country. Geologists estimate that the oldest part of Mammoth Cave began forming around 10 million years ago and over the course of several million years, underground rivers and streams carved out the underlying limestone creating a vast network of underground passageways.
To date, explorers have surveyed and mapped more than 426 miles of cave passage, making Mammoth Cave the longest known cave system in the world. It is a place for hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing, and camping on over 52,000 acres in south central Kentucky. Temperatures inside the cave vary but usually hover around 54°F (12.2°C), year-round.
Tickets are required to enter Mammoth Cave and reservations are strongly recommended. FYI: Pets are welcome on park trails, multi-use paths, and park roads, but must be on a leash less than six feet in length. Pets are restricted from several areas of the park, including buildings and the cave.
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Green River Canoeing & Kayaking
It’s never been easier to discover the beauty of the Green River as it winds through Mammoth Cave National Park. Green River Canoeing and Kayaking proudly offers an exciting variety of local canoe and kayak trips, ranging from three hours to two nights or more.
As you journey downstream and discover small islands, you’ll see turkeys, beavers, birds, reptiles, deer, cranes, and you might even spot an eagle! Trips down the rivers also offer excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking, and birdwatching.
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Green & Nolin Rivers Blueway Trail
Paddle our Green & Nolin Rivers Blueway, the first and only designated National Water Trail in Kentucky. Located predominantly within Mammoth Cave National Park and Edmonson County, including the Nolin Lake Tailwater Recreation Area, this navigable waterway spans 36 miles with seven public access sites that offer camping, picnic shelters, public restrooms, wildlife observation, fishing, hiking, all clearly marked with informational signage to aid in your navigation.
Spending the day along the Blueway will bring visitors to one of the most biodiverse river systems in the nation, hosting over 80 species of fish, about 350 species of macroinvertebrates, and more than 50 species of freshwater mussels. On the rivers, visitors can explore river islands, springs, overhangs and other unique features. There are 18 trips available ranging from two to 29 miles in length.
Experiencing its astounding ecological significance, gentle waters, and an abundance of wildlife, makes a trip down the Blueway good for the soul.
Cave Country
Mammoth Cave is the largest mapped cave system in the world.
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Nolin Lake State Park
Nolin Lake State Park is a sprawling 333-acre recreation park nestled along the northern edge of Mammoth Cave National Park in Edmonson County, Kentucky. The park offers campsites with water and electricity as well as primitive sites. Three sites have been adapted for disabled capabilities.
Family-friendly activities are abundant when visiting Nolin Lake State Park. Enjoy a hands-on visit to the nature center wildlife displays, participate in the curated recreational programs, set up a picnic in the shaded woods, play on the nearby playground, and tackle the approximately 9.2 miles of single-track trails for mountain biking and hiking. After hiking, relax on the sandy beach or cool off with a dip in the lake; the beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pets are allowed in the park (not on the beach) if properly restrained.
