Mammoth Cave Railroad Trail

The Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail offers miles of fun, exploration, and history.

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Mammoth Cave Railroad Trail Details

The original Mammoth Cave Railroad led from the town of Glasgow Junction (now Park City, S.D.) to the park. It operated almost continuously between 1886 and 1931, when automobile travel became so common that it replaced travel by rail. This 10-mile (one-way) biking and hiking trail closely approximates the railroad's historic route. The surface is gravel and the trail is mostly flat, but be aware that there are several sections with steep grades (these are marked). The trail averages eight feet wide, and there are several road crossings. Parking is available at both ends of the trail. The trail is open to biking (mountain bikers call it the Gravel Grinders), and it's a great option for riding when other trails are muddy or in poor condition. Dismount and walk your bicycle at all road crossings, and whenever signs instruct you to do so. Remain on the trail at all times. Bicycle helmets are recommended for everyone. The trail is divided into a northern section (from Engine No. 4 to Sloan's Crossing) and a southern section (from Sloan's Crossing to Bell's Tavern). In addition to parking lots at the northern and southern terminuses, there are parking areas along the trail at Diamond Caverns, Locust Grove, and Sloan's Crossing Pond.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

20 miles

Estimated time

6-8 hours

Region

N/A