Mammoth Cave National Park Weather by Month
Mammoth Cave National Park experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers, cool winters, and mild spring and autumn weather. Located in central Kentucky, the park has a humid subtropical climate with rainfall spread fairly evenly throughout the year.
While outdoor temperatures change significantly by season, the cave itself remains a constant 54°F (12°C) year-round, making cave tours enjoyable in any month.
Mammoth Cave National Park Temperatures by Month
You can click the image below to view the full-size weather chart for Mammoth Cave NP.
January Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
January is the coldest month of the year with chilly temperatures and occasional snowfall.
- Average High: 45°F (7°C)
- Average Low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Rainfall: 3.9 inches (98 mm)
- Snowfall: 3.5 inches (88.8 mm)
- Daylight: 10 hours
Winter hiking is peaceful, and visitor numbers are low during this time of year.
February Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
February remains cold, although temperatures begin to rise slightly toward spring.
- Average High: 50°F (10°C)
- Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)
- Rainfall: 4.4 inches (111.6 mm)
- Snowfall: 3 inches (77 mm)
- Daylight: 11 hours
Rain is more common than snow by late February.
March Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
March brings the beginning of spring with warming temperatures and blooming landscapes.
- Average High: 61°F (16°C)
- Average Low: 37°F (3°C)
- Rainfall: 5 inches (128 mm)
- Snowfall: 1.1 inches (27 mm)
- Daylight: 12 hours
Spring rains become more frequent, especially later in the month.
April Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
April features comfortable temperatures and greener scenery throughout the park.
- Average High: 72°F (22°C)
- Average Low: 45°F (7°C)
- Rainfall: 4.6 inches (117.6 mm)
- Snowfall: 0.1 inches (1.6 mm)
- Daylight: 13 hours
This is one of the best months for hiking and wildlife viewing.
May Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
May offers warm weather, lush vegetation, and excellent outdoor conditions.
- Average High: 79°F (26°C)
- Average Low: 54°F (12°C)
- Rainfall: 5.3 inches (135.2 mm)
- Snowfall: 0 inches
- Daylight: 14 hours
Late spring is ideal for camping, canoeing, and scenic drives.
June Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
June marks the beginning of summer with warm temperatures and longer days.
- Average High: 86°F (30°C)
- Average Low: 61°F (16°C)
- Rainfall: 4.4 inches (112.7 mm)
- Daylight: 14.5 hours
The cool cave temperatures provide relief from the summer heat outdoors.
July Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
July is typically the hottest month of the year.
- Average High: 88°F (31°C)
- Average Low: 66°F (19°C)
- Rainfall: 5 inches (127.3 mm)
- Daylight: 14.5 hours
Humidity levels are high, and afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
August Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
August remains hot and humid, although nights are slightly cooler than July.
- Average High: 88°F (31°C)
- Average Low: 64°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: 4 inches (102.6 mm)
- Daylight: 13.5 hours
Summer is the busiest tourist season in the park.
September Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
September brings cooler evenings and more comfortable hiking conditions.
- Average High: 82°F (28°C)
- Average Low: 57°F (14°C)
- Rainfall: 4.2 inches (105.9 mm)
- Daylight: 12.5 hours
Early autumn colors may begin appearing late in the month.
October Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
October is one of the most beautiful months thanks to colorful fall foliage.
- Average High: 72°F (22°C)
- Average Low: 46°F (8°C)
- Rainfall: 3.6 inches (91.3 mm)
- Snowfall: 0 inches
- Daylight: 11.5 hours
Cool temperatures and scenic landscapes make October one of the best times to visit.
November Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
November becomes cooler as late autumn transitions into winter.
- Average High: 59°F (15°C)
- Average Low: 37°F (3°C)
- Rainfall: 4.2 inches (106.9 mm)
- Snowfall: 0.2 inches (5.9 mm)
- Daylight: 10.5 hours
Crowds become smaller, creating a peaceful atmosphere across the park.
December Weather in Mammoth Cave National Park
December brings cold weather and the return of occasional snowfall.
- Average High: 48°F (9°C)
- Average Low: 30°F (-1°C)
- Rainfall: 4.9 inches (123.4 mm)
- Snowfall: 1.4 inches (36.2 mm)
- Daylight: 9.5 hours
Winter cave tours remain popular because the underground temperature stays constant year-round.
Mammoth Cave National Park Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (inches) | Sun (hrs/day) | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 45 | 25 | 3.9 | 10 | 3.5 |
| February | 50 | 28 | 4.4 | 11 | 3.0 |
| March | 61 | 37 | 5.0 | 12 | 1.1 |
| April | 72 | 45 | 4.6 | 13 | 0.1 |
| May | 79 | 54 | 5.3 | 14 | 0.0 |
| June | 86 | 61 | 4.4 | 14.5 | 0.0 |
| July | 88 | 66 | 5.0 | 14.5 | 0.0 |
| August | 88 | 64 | 4.0 | 13.5 | 0.0 |
| September | 82 | 57 | 4.2 | 12.5 | 0.0 |
| October | 72 | 46 | 3.6 | 11.5 | 0.0 |
| November | 59 | 37 | 4.2 | 10.5 | 0.2 |
| December | 48 | 30 | 4.9 | 9.5 | 1.4 |
Best Time to Visit Mammoth Cave National Park
The best time to visit Mammoth Cave National Park depends on your preferred activities:
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and active wildlife
- Summer (June to August): Warm temperatures and full outdoor access
- Fall (September to October): Comfortable hiking weather and beautiful foliage
- Winter (November to February): Quiet trails and fewer visitors
For the most pleasant outdoor conditions, many travelers consider spring and fall the ideal seasons to visit.
20 FAQs About Mammoth Cave National Park Weather
1. What is the best time to visit Mammoth Cave National Park?
The best time to visit is usually spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and outdoor conditions are comfortable.
2. What is the hottest month in Mammoth Cave National Park?
July and August are typically the hottest months, with average highs around 88°F (31°C).
3. What is the coldest month in Mammoth Cave National Park?
January is usually the coldest month, with average lows near 25°F (-4°C).
4. Does it snow in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Yes, snowfall occurs during winter, especially from December through February, although heavy snow is uncommon.
5. How much rain does Mammoth Cave National Park get?
The park receives moderate rainfall year-round, averaging around 4 to 5 inches per month.
6. What is the weather like in summer?
Summers are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and warm daytime temperatures.
7. Is Mammoth Cave cold inside?
Yes. The cave stays around 54°F (12°C) year-round regardless of outdoor weather.
8. What should I wear for a cave tour?
Visitors should bring a light jacket or sweatshirt because cave temperatures remain cool throughout the year.
9. Is spring a good time to visit Mammoth Cave?
Yes. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, green landscapes, and comfortable hiking weather.
10. What is fall weather like in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Fall is cool and pleasant with colorful foliage, especially during October.
11. Are summers crowded at Mammoth Cave National Park?
Yes. Summer is the busiest season because of school vacations and warm outdoor conditions.
12. Does Mammoth Cave National Park experience thunderstorms?
Yes. Thunderstorms are common during late spring and summer, particularly in the afternoons.
13. Can you visit Mammoth Cave National Park in winter?
Yes. Winter visits are popular for travelers seeking fewer crowds and peaceful hiking trails.
14. What is the driest month in Mammoth Cave National Park?
October is typically one of the driest months of the year.
15. How humid is Mammoth Cave National Park?
Humidity levels are generally high during summer due to Kentucky’s humid subtropical climate.
16. Are hiking trails open year-round?
Most hiking trails remain open year-round, although weather conditions can occasionally affect accessibility.
17. What is the average summer temperature in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Summer daytime highs usually range from 86°F to 88°F (30°C to 31°C).
18. How many daylight hours does Mammoth Cave get in summer?
The park receives up to 14.5 hours of daylight during June and July.
19. Is autumn a good season for photography?
Yes. Autumn is one of the best times for photography because of the vibrant fall colors and pleasant weather.
20. Does weather affect cave tours?
Most cave tours operate in all seasons, but severe weather can occasionally cause schedule changes or temporary closures.
