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This mild trail leads to an excellent overlook of the dramatic Cedar Sink.


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Map Key

1.0

Miles

1.6

KM

Point to Point

642' 196 m

High

581' 177 m

Low

59' 18 m

Up

73' 22 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (1°)

11%

Max Grade (6°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

Family Friendly This route is a great option for visitors who want to enjoy the geology of the park without descending into the cave system. The trail is short and well-maintained.

Description

Mammoth Cave National Park is known for being interesting both above and below ground. This short trail will lead hikers to an area where the above ground and below ground meet in a dramatic sink hole.

Starting from the Cedar Sink Trailhead, the path will be fairly obvious as it departs south. The first half mile of the trail is a relaxing hike through the dense woods of the park. This shady path is a great option even in summer when the temperatures are high.

As you continue on your way, two noticeable drops will let you know that you're approaching the sinkhole. Take your time as you first navigate the top of the feature, and then descend to the bottom. As you work your way down, you'll be able to admire sheer limestone cliff edges and outcrops all on a gentle boardwalk. The trail will make a short loop around the feature before coming to an end.

Once you've finished enjoying this geologic feature, head back to the trailhead the way that you came.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mikhaila Redovian

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 12 votes

#3

in South Side

#7990

Overall
  4.2 from 12 votes
5 Star
42%
4 Star
42%
3 Star
8%
2 Star
8%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#3

in South Side

#77

in Kentucky

#7,990

Overall
12 Views Last Month
2,339 Since May 25, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

18%
18%
45%
9%
9%
0%

Photos

The Cedar Sinks Trail explores interesting rock formations and crevices.
Jun 6, 2017 near Brownsv…, KY
A light dusting of snow compliments the icicles over Cedar Sink. Photo credit: NPS Photo.
Jun 1, 2017 near Brownsv…, KY

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Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Mar 24, 2024
Tom Herr
I enjoyed the lollipop portion at the sinkhole. Side trails galore and I checked out a few. Relaxing forested hike. 1mi
Feb 19, 2024
Lara Verbecken
Feb 6, 2024
Emily Jennings
Nov 6, 2023
David Hitchcock
Sink was dry, but pretty hike through a colorful forest.
Oct 20, 2023
Jerri Brock
Aug 31, 2023
Dale Hilgendorf
Jul 8, 2023
Amy Sublette Freeman
Feb 19, 2023
Kazuki Ko
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