Trail

Ride the Big Hollow Trail

Trail
A young woman riding down a narrow trail on a mountain bike.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
9.1
Route Type
Loop (9.1-mile full loop, or North Loop 5.3 mi, South Loop 3.7 mi)
Difficulty Level
Moderate—single-track with grade changes and rocky terrain; not beginner-friendly
Elevation Gain Feet
600

Trail profile

Distance Miles
9.1
Route Type
Loop (9.1-mile full loop, or North Loop 5.3 mi, South Loop 3.7 mi)
Difficulty Level
Moderate—single-track with grade changes and rocky terrain; not beginner-friendly
Elevation Gain Feet
600
Estimated Time
2.5–4 hours depending on skill and stops
Trail Surface
Dirt single-track with varying widths and grade changes; rocky outcroppings
Trail Features
  • Dense woodlands
  • Rocky outcroppings
  • Single-track terrain
  • Rolling elevation changes
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Maple Springs Trailhead, within Maple Springs Campground
Parking Lot Size
30–40 spaces (Maple Springs Campground lot)
Parking Fill Time
Full by 9 AM on weekends; 10–11 AM on weekdays
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
None required. Trail accessed entirely from Maple Springs Trailhead with connector option to Big Hollow Trailhead (1 mi out-and-back).

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required.
Fees
No entrance fee to Mammoth Cave National Park.
Trail Status
Open year-round
Seasonal Closures
None—trail open all seasons, though mud and water damage may occur after heavy rain or snowmelt

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
1
Water Sources
Carry all water—no reliable sources mid-trail. Filter at Maple Springs if available before starting.
Accessibility
Rooty and steep in places with grade changes and rocky terrain. Not accessible for wheelchairs or casual riders.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Loose terrain after rain
  • Rocky sections
  • Exposure to sun on open segments
  • Cliff edges on some sections
Hazard Details
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.
Crowd Level
Moderate—popular with local riders on weekends; quieter weekday mornings
Peak Crowd Times
Saturday–Sunday mornings; holidays
Best Season
Spring and Fall
Best Time To Visit
April through October for stable weather and dry trails. Arrive by 8 AM to secure parking at Maple Springs Trailhead; weekends fill fast. Early morning also avoids afternoon heat on exposed sections.
Tips Advice
  • 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.

More details

Park Area
North side of Mammoth Cave, Maple Springs area
Trail Markers
Marked with standard mountain bike blazes; well-worn tread makes it easy to follow
Dogs Allowed
Yes, pets are permitted
Biking Allowed
Yes—mountain biking only; no road bikes. This is the park's dedicated mountain bike trail.
Shade Level
Mostly shaded under canopy; some sun-exposed rolling sections
Emergency Contacts
Visitor Center: (270) 758-2180. Rangers patrol the park; make noise and flag help if injured.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Rare; occasional light snow Dec–Feb does not typically close the trail
Mud Season
March and after heavy rain—conditions slippery for 24–48 hours post-storm
Fall Colors Peak
October—peak foliage in surrounding forest
Bug Season
June–August (mosquitoes); bring repellent
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.
Recent Updates
Trail maintained by park service and volunteer mountain bike groups. No major closures or reroutes as of 2026.
Family Friendly Notes
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.
Nearby Facilities
Maple Springs Campground has restrooms. Visitor Center is 15 minutes away. No lodging, food, or water at trailhead.
Review Summary
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.

Location

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sources

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

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.