You can see a large number of cave corals in Onyx Cave; “cave bacon” and columns are also among the visible formations. For a broader perspective, Mammoth Cave National Park offers a different scale: Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world; 412 miles have been surveyed to date. The national park covers about 52,830 acres in Edmonson, Hart and Barren counties in Kentucky. Striking cave formations and the surveyed extent of a cave system stand side by side. For visitors, this contrast offers two perspectives: a close look at individual formations and a sense of the scale of an underground system.
Underground Discoveries
The ways of exploring the caves also differ. Diamond Caverns is open year-round and offers guided tours along a half-mile loop that takes 60 minutes. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not accepted. As tour availability and admission procedures may change, check the current conditions before your visit. Ranger-led cave tours are offered at Mammoth Cave National Park. Onyx Cave is located directly off I-65 at Exit 53.
Nature Trails and Recreation by the Lake
Brigadoon State Nature Preserve is a 187-acre protected area in Barren County, next to Barren River Lake. Its footpath is one mile long and moderately challenging; it crosses ridges, passes through old-growth forest and runs along scenic ravines. The length and terrain together give a concrete picture of the trail: over a relatively short distance, ridges, forest and ravines alternate.
At Barren River Lake State Resort Park, the Bike-&-Hiking Trail is a paved 2.5-mile loop. Compared with the one-mile Brigadoon trail, this loop is longer and paved; ridges, old-growth forest and ravines shape the trail there. The State Resort Park also has public boat launches, including facilities at the campground and a launch with a service dock next to the marina. There is also an 18-hole golf course.
History, Theater and Regional Products
The South Central Kentucky Cultural Center preserves the history and culture of “The Barrens” for future generations. Its collections include artifacts, artwork, publications, archival materials and a genealogical library. This range brings together physical objects and written and genealogical resources for exploring the region’s history.
Fort Williams was built by the Union Army in 1863. The preserved fort is one of the few remaining earthen forts from the American Civil War in Kentucky. The Plaza Theatre opened around early 1934 and presents live performances by national, regional and local artists. As the schedule of individual events changes, check current dates for specific performances.
At the Bounty of the Barrens Farmers Market, offerings include seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy products, eggs, honey, baked goods, meat and handcrafted products. Market dates and vendors may change, so check current dates and offerings before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Cave City, Park City, Glasgow, Knox County, Hardin, Bell County, Scott, Owen County.
Go to the main travel overview: Kentucky.
