Kentucky's Mammoth Cave, The World's Largest Underground Cavern, Just Got A Little Longer
By Sarah McCosham|Published October 19, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Mammoth Cave is the superlative superstar of the Bluegrass, earning the state world-wide acclaim and attention. The cavern system features some 400 miles of underground caverns and passageways, with more miles being added all the time. In fact, Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave just got a little longer, following the discovery of an additional eight miles of passages by the Cave Research Foundation.
Within the rolling hills of west-central Kentucky, nestled on the edge of America's Southern Appalachian Region, lies an underground world millions of years in the making.
In fact, just this year, the Cave Research Foundation discovered eight new miles in this massive underworld, bringing Mammoth Cave's total underground mileage to 420 known miles of passages!
While exploring Mammoth Cave's above-ground expanse is free and self-guided; cave access is by ranger-guided tour only, and advanced reservations are strongly recommend.
The Violet City Lantern Tour is a fan favorite. This three-hour tour covers three miles -- all by lantern light! This tour offers an in-depth look at Mammoth Cave's rich history and most intriguing geological features.
When it comes to discoveries in Mammoth Cave, there's no end in sight. There is a seemingly infinite world of possibility -- and it's hiding right beneath our feet.
Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave truly is one of our state’s finest crown jewels, and its grandeur never ceases to amaze. Definitely plan a visit to this bucket-list-worthy attraction soon; and be sure to explore the park’s above-ground features while you’re there, too!
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