Tuesday, July 14

This morning we started out back at Mammoth Cave National Park. Yesterday we did below ground of Mammoth Cave, and today, we decided to do above ground. We began on the same path we did yesterday and stopped at the historical entrance of the cave of Mammoth Cave. Because it was before tours started there were no rangers, tours or people around.  We were able to walk down the stairs to the main entrance and then back up. Teddy seemed satisfied with seeing just that much of the cave today because it was cold. Note to self: if going on cave tours in future, bring a sweatshirt!

Our next destination began at the cave entrance. I had read that the River Styx Spring was beautiful and an easy trail for all skill levels. As we made our way to the spring, Thom pointed out that it was easy because the entire way was downhill....this made me a little concerned about our return. 

I was under the impression that we could go down to the spring, but it was actually an overlook over the spring.  From there we found a little path that led to a river.  It was quick moving. We then saw a sign for the Dixon Cave. It was only .5 miles so we thought it would be a good one....and it was! Because we were down toward the river and at the bottom of the hill we had to climb back up.  Teddy was such a trooper and did a great job hiking. 

The Dixon Cave is home to hibernating Indiana Bats. Because of this, the cave is closed off for humans.  We also read that originally the Dixon Cave was part of the larger cave system (that we went into) but due to a sinkhole it collapsed and is now its own cave. 

We then made our way back to the visitor center area to get in the van.  Before we left we had to get our traditional picture outside the official Mammoth Cave National Park sign.  

After a quick run to the cabin to change a diaper and exchange the golf cart we made a stop at McDonalds for lunch.  By this point, it was very evident that the boys were exhausted! 

While we waited for Rocky to fall asleep Teddy and I took a golf cart ride around the campgrounds to explore. We tried the jumping pillows and checked to see if the waterslide was open.

The boys' naps didn't overlap much today. Rocky was up super early so we went for a golf cart ride. He LOVED riding. As we drove by one of the pavilions I remembered that Yogi Bear would be making an appearance and there he was! Rocky looked him up and down and I thought he was calm, but by the time we got close he got scared and screamed.  After returning for the cabin for snacks and playing on the porch (Thom was napping too by this point) we decided to go for another ride. Thanks to the vibrations and sound Rocky fell asleep on me during the ride. 

Once Teddy woke up we decided to try and avoid the crowds by getting an early dinner.  We went to El Mazatlan and sat on the outdoor dining area. 

After a quick outfit change we were on our way to the jumping pillows, Ranger Station for ice cream and splash pad.  Both boys were getting even more exhausted and it was becoming evident in Rocky.  While Thom and Teddy went for another golf cart ride, I gave Rocky a bath and put him to bed--he was asleep within 2 minutes.  

Thom scavenged enough wood for another fire.  We all shared a s'more and enjoyed the stars. 

I cannot believe our vacation is coming to an end. It was incredibly rejuvenating and some amazing times shared with both friends and family.