Location & Canoeable Mileage -- For a run of 111 miles, put
in at the Corps of Engineers boat ramp just below the dam at Green River Lake. The
take out is at Mammoth Cave Ferry in the National Park where there is a parking lot but
not much landing room. You might want to take 7-9 days to do this entire trip. There
is also good put in at Greensburg American Legion Park, which shortens the trip by about
24 miles. The Corps of Engineers maintains a modest minimum instream release at
Green River Lake Dam. Some authorities recommend a release of at least 220 cfs for
this run, although it can be done at lower levels if you don't mind dragging over some
shoals and a bit of wading.
Interesting Features -- The Green River traverses an area of
rugged terrain; bluffs and large hills are seen continuously throughout this run.
Before the river enters Mammoth Cave National Park, some of the flatter land is used for
cattle grazing and feed crops, but the oak and maple forest is abundant throughout.
There are many springs and small cave along the river. The area
known as 300 Springs is particularly dramatic, where several waterfalls cascade into the
river.
The Green River would be characterized as a pool and shoal river, with
long and relatively slow pools interspersed with rocky shoals where the current is much
faster. There are no major rapids, but you will need to dodge rocks and other
obstacles, so some whitewater skills are helpful.
The town of Munfordville is right on the river, and is worth a visit on
foot to see the historic buildings, obtain supplies if needed, or stop for a bite to eat.
When the Green River enters Mammoth Cave National Park, the scenery
takes a turn to the more natural, as the diverse hardwood forest has fully regenerated
itself since this land came under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. Wildlife,
fully protected by the park, is more abundant.
Since the visitor center at Mammoth Cave is about a mile from the river
landing at Mammoth Cave Ferry, you might want to visit this world class attraction before
or after your float trip. In fact, you can surely spend a week exploring the cave and
hiking the trails, so why not make it a two week vacation and do it all! Visitation is
highest in the summer, so going in the off season will mean less congestion and easier
access to the cave tours.
In season, you may see Miss Green River II, a paddle wheel tour boat
that runs up and down the Green River. Her dock is at the Mammoth Cave Ferry
crossing (an active car ferry with a side-wheeler ferry boat).
Camping -- On the Green River upstream from the park, you will
find primitive riverside campsites along the way. Be aware that except in the National
Park, all land along the river is privately owned, and you should always seek permission
from landowners before camping. Within the park, camping along the river is allowed by
permit which can be obtained free from the National Park Service.
You can camp at the city park in Munfordville which is right on the
river.
Additional Information:
