Mammoth Cave National Park; Bicycling and Horses
Published Date: 2/9/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Mammoth Cave National Park is planning to let visitors ride bikes on about 37 miles of trails and horses on a 5.4-mile route called Houchin Ferry North/Ollie Road. This change opens up more fun ways to explore the park starting once the rule is finalized. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by April 10, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
About 37 Miles Open to Bicycles
The rule would allow bicycle use on approximately 37 miles of multi-use trails in Mammoth Cave National Park, identifying 12 specific trails by name and approximate mileage. This expands where you can bike in the park, including adding eight new trails and keeping the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike & Hike Trail (about 9.3 miles) listed for bicycle use.
5.4-Mile Route Open to Equestrians
The rule would allow horseback riding on the Houchin Ferry North/Ollie Road, an approximately 5.4-mile route in the park. This creates a new loop opportunity for equestrians to ride to the river and back from the park's northern boundary.
Possible Small Business Boost Nearby
The National Park Service states the rule could lead to a slight increase in park visitation and thereby generate benefits for businesses, including small entities, through increased visitor spending. The agency certified the rule would not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
Superintendent May Allow E‑Bikes
Under the proposed rule, the park superintendent may decide to allow electric bicycles on any trails that are designated for traditional bicycle use, consistent with 36 CFR 4.30, and will notify the public using methods in 36 CFR 1.7. The rule also notes trail-use of two-wheeled e-bikes is already allowed where traditional bicycles are allowed, with some limits on three-wheeled e-bikes.
Two Trails Closed To Bicycling, One Road Converted
The preferred plan and this proposed rule would discontinue bicycle use on the White Oak Trail and close and restore the Maple Springs Connector Trail, while converting about one mile of Ugly Creek Road from a public road to an administrative road that would be open to hiking and bicycling. These changes reassign bicycle access among park routes.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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