Near Echo River Spring Trail
Fun descent on the Sinkhole Trail.
Near Echo River Spring Trail
A visitor feels the cool water flowing out of Echo River Springs. Photo credit: NPS Photo.
Near Echo River Spring Trail
The flat wide path makes for an enjoyable run.
Near Echo River Spring Trail
Echo River Spring sits right off the side of the trail.
Near Echo River Spring Trail
The trail crosses a bridge over a creek that is fed by the Echo River Spring.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Echo River Spring Trail

4.5 (2 Ratings)
Hike through the woods on an ADA accessible trail providing access to Echo River Spring.
0.7
mi
Distance
26
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
ADA AccessibleFall ColorsFishingGeologically SignificantRiver/CreekWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.73mi
Distance
26ft
Elevation Gain
26ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
457ft
High Point
426ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The Echo River Spring Trail can be accessed by driving to the end of Green River Ferry Road and parking in the lot before you get to the Ferry. In the parking lot there is an observation deck where you can watch the ferry if it is running. At the end of the parking lot by the river, the trail passes a kayak/canoe launch and crosses a bridge over a creek fed by Echo River Spring and begins to enter the woods on a paved, concrete path. The trail runs along the Green River for a short distance before breaking to the right and comes to the junction with the Two Springs Trailhead, which is unpaved. The concrete trail continues to meander through the trees where you may see deer, woodpeckers, and other birds in the forest around you. Just beyond a third of a mile, the path passes the Sinkhole Trail on the left that climbs up into the park. Continuing straight ahead, the concrete path transforms into a wooden deck above the forest floor. Information signs describe how the water from the springs run into Mammoth Cave where animals like the Kentucky Cave Shrimp, Northern cavefish, and Mammoth Cave crayfish call home. The trail alternates between wooden decking and concrete as it passes Echo River Spring where there is signage about how scientists and divers trace the rivers and springs that run through the area. The trail continues straight and passes a picnic area before emerging back at the parking lot.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Downed Tree
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Contributors
David Hitchcock