When most of us think of Kentucky, we think of horses, blue grass, hills and bourban… but, did you know that underneath Kentucky is the world’s largest cave?  Actually, there are two cave systems in Kentucky.  With the ground consisting mostly of limestone, which easily erodes, underground rivers formed and carved out hundreds of miles of tunnels that curve and turn, labyrinth style, like a bowl of spaghetti.

During the war of 1812, saltpeter was mined from Mammoth Cave as a key ingredient for gunpowder.

Geologists say that there could still be another 600 miles of tunnels yet to be discovered.

There are several ranger led tours and we took the historic tour.  It was interesting seeing hundreds of names placed on the walls and ceilings by the early guest in the cave.  Some were carved, some were put up with the soot from candles and lanterns.

There is also a self-guided tour called the Discovery Tour that takes about 30 minutes, that allows you to go at your own pace. 

We really enjoyed our trip to Mammoth Cave with Bill’s sister Tolley and her hubby Charlie.  When we come this way again, there will be more to see in this cave because it sure does live up to its name.