The Buffalo Creek Trail in Mammoth Cave National Park is a popular destination for hikers and horseback riders seeking to explore the park’s natural beauty and cave system. As a cavern touring enthusiast, you’ll find this trail offers a unique and scenic experience, with opportunities to witness the park’s diverse landscapes and geological wonders.
Suitability for Horseback Riding
One of the key features of the Buffalo Creek Trail is its suitability for horseback riding. The 4.4-mile out-and-back/connector trail includes creek and forest views, making it an ideal route for equestrian enthusiasts. The trail can also be connected to other trails, such as Turnhole Bend, Sal Hollow, and Good Springs Trails, allowing for longer and more varied riding experiences.
Terrain
The terrain of the Buffalo Creek Trail is generally considered moderately challenging. The trail offers a mix of level, well-marked sections and more rugged, pockmarked areas. Hikers and riders will encounter creek crossings, sinkholes, and springs, adding to the trail’s diverse and interesting landscape.
Scenic River Vistas
As you traverse the Buffalo Creek Trail, you’ll be treated to scenic river vistas. The trail follows the edge of the hillside, providing glimpses of the hollow and opposing ridge. Additionally, the trail intersects with the Green River, offering a brief but stunning view of the waterway.
Cost and Timings
- Cost: While there is no specific cost mentioned for the Buffalo Creek Trail, Mammoth Cave National Park has an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
- Timings: The trail is open year-round, and the average time to complete the 5.5-mile loop trail is around 1 hour and 57 minutes.
Directory and Hours
- Directory: The trailhead is located near the Maple Springs Trailhead, which is a few miles from the Visitor Center and campground.
- Hours: The park is open year-round, but the visitor center hours vary by season. From April 1 to October 31, the visitor center is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and from November 1 to March 31, it is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Rates and Value
- Rates: While there are no specific rates mentioned for the Buffalo Creek Trail, the park offers various cave tours with different rates, ranging from $7 to $60 per person.
- Value: The trail offers a great value for hikers and horseback riders, providing scenic views of creeks and forests, as well as opportunities to explore the Mammoth Cave backcountry.
Additional Information
- Parking: The Maple Springs Trailhead has a large parking lot with vault toilets, but no water source.
- Trail Conditions: The trail can be muddy in some areas, especially after rain, and there may be downed trees to navigate.
As a cavern touring enthusiast, the Buffalo Creek Trail in Mammoth Cave National Park provides a unique and rewarding experience. With its suitability for horseback riding, scenic river vistas, and opportunities to explore the park’s natural wonders, this trail is a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Mammoth Cave.
References:
– AllTrails. (n.d.). Sal Hollow and Buffalo Creek Loop Trail. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/kentucky/sal-hollow-and-buffalo-creek-loop-trail
– AllTrails. (n.d.). Buffalo Creek and Sal Hollow Loop. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/kentucky/buffalo-creek-and-sal-hollow-loop
– Hiking Project. (n.d.). Buffalo Creek Trail. Retrieved from https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7003608/buffalo-creek-trail
– Cave Country Trails. (n.d.). Buffalo Creek Trail. Retrieved from https://cavecountrytrails.com/trails/buffalo-creek-trail/
– A Less In Tents Life. (2016, April 11). Mammoth Cave Sal Hollow Trail. Retrieved from https://lessintentslife.com/2016/04/11/mammoth-cave-sal-hollow-trail/