Big Hollow Trail - 9.1mi Mountain Bike Loop

Q: Can I do this as a beginner?

Not recommended as a first trail. This requires decent bike handling and fitness. The South Loop (3.7 mi) is your best bet if you insist; it's flowy and less technical.

Q: Do I need special gear beyond my normal bike?

Helmet is mandatory and non-negotiable. Bring 2L water, a spare tube, and a basic repair kit (pump, levers). Trekking poles aren't needed; gloves are good for grip on rocky sections.

Q: Is it safe to ride alone?

Yes—the trail is well-marked and popular enough that other riders are usually nearby. Bring a phone (cell service is unknown but call for emergencies). Tell someone your plan.

Q: What's the best time of year to visit?

April–October for dry conditions. Avoid June–August for heat and bugs. October is peak foliage and perfect temps.

Q: Do I need a permit or pass?

No permit required. Mammoth Cave has no entrance fee. You do need a valid reservation if camping at Maple Springs.

Distance

9.1 mi

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Est. Time

2.5–4 hours depending on skill and stops

Route Type

Loop (9.1-mile full loop, or North Loop 5.3 mi, South Loop 3.7 mi)

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Spring and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

The Big Hollow Trail Loop is Mammoth Cave's only mountain bike trail—10+ miles of single-track winding through dense woodlands and rocky outcroppings on the park's north side. The North Loop (5.3 mi) and South Loop (3.7 mi) can be ridden independently or linked for the full 9.1-mile experience. Moderate technical difficulty with steady rolling terrain; accessible to competent riders but not a beginner ribbon-cutting.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate—single-track with grade changes and rocky terrain; not beginner-friendly

Trail Highlights

Technical single-track through mature forest with rock gardens; views of dense canopy and intermittent clearings; trails offer a mix of flow sections and technical climbs.

Insider Tips

• North Loop has the steeper climbs; save energy for the first half. • South Loop is more rolling and less technical; good warm-up. • Ride midweek for solitude; locals are predictable. • The connector trail from Big Hollow Trailhead adds a scenic mile but is out-of-the-way. • Check recent rain—this trail drains slowly.

Best Season to Hike

Spring and Fall

Hiking Tips

Bring 2L water minimum—no mid-trail sources.
Check trail conditions after rain; loose sections get slippery.
Tighten your helmet strap before hitting the north side climbs.
Bring a spare tube; rocky terrain punishes tires.
Ride counterclockwise on North Loop to tackle climbing early.

Family Info

Suitable for families with intermediate-level young riders (ages 12+); younger children or beginners should start on the South Loop (3.7 mi, easier rolling terrain). Helmet mandatory. Supervise children on technical sections and near edges.

What Hikers Say

Riders praise Big Hollow for its flowy single-track and lack of crowds compared to nearby parks. The terrain is moderately technical but fair—no extreme exposure or mandatory hike-a-bike. Summer heat and mud after rain are the main complaints.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 9.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 600 ft

Duration: 2.5–4 hours depending on skill and stops

Difficulty: Moderate—single-track with grade changes and rocky terrain; not beginner-friendly

Route Type: Loop (9.1-mile full loop, or North Loop 5.3 mi, South Loop 3.7 mi)

Surface: Dirt single-track with varying widths and grade changes; rocky outcroppings

Getting There

Trailhead: Maple Springs Trailhead, within Maple Springs Campground

Parking: 30–40 spaces (Maple Springs Campground lot)

Fills Up: Full by 9 AM on weekends; 10–11 AM on weekdays

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required.

Fees: No entrance fee to Mammoth Cave National Park.

Shuttle Available

None required. Trail accessed entirely from Maple Springs Trailhead with connector option to Big Hollow Trailhead (1 mi out-and-back).

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes, pets are permitted

Biking: Yes—mountain biking only; no road bikes. This is the park's dedicated mountain bike trail.

Trail Markers: Marked with standard mountain bike blazes; well-worn tread makes it easy to follow

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Carry all water—no reliable sources mid-trail. Filter at Maple Springs if available before starting.

Shade: Mostly shaded under canopy; some sun-exposed rolling sections

Hazards:

Trail surface is loose in spots; rocky outcroppings and grade changes pose rolling hazards. Some sections border drops—not massive, but a slip could hurt. Sun exposure on rolling terrain between tree cover; heat risk in summer.

Emergency: Visitor Center: (270) 758-2180. Rangers patrol the park; make noise and flag help if injured.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate—popular with local riders on weekends; quieter weekday mornings

Peak Times: Saturday–Sunday mornings; holidays

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep in places with grade changes and rocky terrain. Not accessible for wheelchairs or casual riders.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Maple Springs Campground has restrooms. Visitor Center is 15 minutes away. No lodging, food, or water at trailhead.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail difficult for a mountain biker with some experience?

No—it's moderate. If you're comfortable on rooty, rolling single-track with grade changes and loose rock, you'll manage. The North Loop is steeper; start on the South Loop to build confidence.

Can I do this as a beginner?

Do I need special gear beyond my normal bike?

Is it safe to ride alone?

What's the best time of year to visit?

Do I need a permit or pass?

📖 National Park Service — Ride the Big Hollow Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-07) 📖 National Park Service — Mammoth Cave National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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