Located beneath the protective sandstone of the Mammoth Cave Plateau, the Mammoth Cave system is best known for being the longest surveyed cave in the world. Over 365 miles of passageways have been explored to date, with more being discovered each year. The cave is a sprawling network of caves located under five different ridges and at five different depths. Tours at Mammoth Cave National Park provide access to over ten miles of the system. Tours average one to two miles in length and are considered moderately strenuous.Besides its unparalleled length, Mammoth Cave features very large dry canyon passages and deep vertical shafts. Four thousand year old artifacts tell of prehistoric mineral collection by native Americans, while 19th century ruins of salt peter mining operations and candle smoked signatures speak of the beginnings of modern exploration and touring. From I-65 take Exits 48 at Park City or 53 at Cave City and follow signs to the park's visitor center for cave tours, campground and other visitor services.
