Park City: Railroad History, Caves and Trails

Park City offers several distinct highlights for a trip: citywide cycling trails, the Mammoth Cave Bike and Hike Trail, and the history of a former railroad line. Cave formations, guided tours, and a seasonal farmers market add to these attractions. Depending on whether you want to focus on outdoor activity, cultural history, or an event date, you can tailor your trip accordingly.

Trails and Getting Around

Park City is located at Exit 48 on Interstate 65. Cyclists can use trails throughout the city, and Bell's Tavern Park has paved walking paths. The Mammoth Cave Bike and Hike Trail is accessible from town. Along the trail, cyclists and hikers can stop at historic sites, interpretive signs, and scenic overlooks. This lets you combine outdoor activity with stops offering different points of interest: historic sites, explanatory signs, and views.

A Railroad Line Later Turned into a Trail

The history of the Mammoth Cave Bike and Hike Trail goes back to the Mammoth Cave Railroad. It ran from Glasgow Junction, now Park City, to Mammoth Cave, stopping at Diamond Caverns along the way. The abandoned rail route was converted into the Mammoth Cave Bike and Hike Trail in 2004. The trail thus brings together an earlier rail connection and its later use as a route for cyclists and hikers.

Another historical landmark is the 1860 ruins of Bell's Tavern, which still stand in Park City. They complement the railroad's history with a preserved site from another era.

Cave Formations and Guided Tours

Diamond Caverns was discovered in 1859. Visitors can see stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapery formations, and flowstone there. Guided tours last about an hour and follow a half-mile loop. The approximate duration and length of the loop give you a useful reference when fitting a cave visit into your schedule alongside other parts of your trip.

Canoeing, Kayaking, and Events

Green River Canoeing & Kayaking offers canoe and kayak trips ranging from three hours to two nights or longer. The outfitter's rental office is located in Park City. The difference from the approximately one-hour tour at Diamond Caverns is useful for planning your time: canoe and kayak trips range from a few hours to two nights or longer.

The annual SoKy Highland Festival celebrates Scottish heritage and culture. The Southern Kentucky Highland Games are held at Bell's Tavern Park in Park City, with live music, athletic competitions, and interactive activities on the program. Park City's Farmers Market takes place downtown every Tuesday during the summer. These offerings have distinct focuses: a festival celebrating Scottish heritage, games featuring music and competitions, and a seasonal weekly market.

Discover more destinations: Glasgow, Cave City.

Return to the regional travel overview: Barren County.