Explore the park on Horseback

Exploring the parks north side trails by horseback is popular year-round.

NPS Photo/ Sara Davis

Mammoth Cave National Park is an exceptional destination for anyone who loves to see the world from the back of a horse. Riders will find miles of wooded backcountry trails suitable for many skills and ages. The trails range from wide, smooth dirt paths that two riders can travel together, to daring, single file, ridgeline trails.

Bringing your horse to the park

Trails
60 miles of backcountry trails north of the Green River are open for horseback riding.

Trailer Parking
Day-use horseback riders can park trailers at the following trailheads on the north side of the park:

• First Creek Trailhead
• Lincoln Trailhead
• Maple Springs Trailhead
• Maple Springs Campground, across the road from bulletin board
• Temple Hill Trailhead

Trail Rules and Stewardship

Horseback riders can provide an excellent example to all visitors by following the Seven Leave No Trace Principles as well as these park rules:

• Horseback riding is prohibited on all park roads.
• When hikers and horses meet, horses must be slowed to a walk and hikers should remain quiet.
• Stay on marked trails only. Do not shortcut trails or follow social trails - this erodes and damages trails.
• Trails can become muddy in some locations after rain. To preserve the trail surface avoid riding after recent rainstorms or when trails are excessively wet.
• Always hitch horses more than 100 feet away from designated campsites, trails or water sources.
• Never tie horses to trees. Always cross-tie horses between trees.
• Leave no litter in the backcountry. Remember: Take only memories; leave only footprints.

More information on horseback riding in the park is avalible on the park web page. 

Details

Activity

Horseback Riding

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be leashed at all times. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Maple Springs Trailhead

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

The Maple Spring Trailhead has an accessible platform for mounting and dismounting horses.