Mammoth Cave National Park is reopening Nolin River to outdoor explorers, with a few caveats.

“We’re calling it a wild and dynamic river,” Mammoth Cave National Park management analyst Molly Schroer said.

Following the failure and subsequent removal of Lock and Dam No. 6 in November 2016, the 104-mile-long Green River tributary’s water level dropped, the banks became unstable and more trees began to fall.

“There were hundreds of these trees blocking the path for boaters to go down,” Schroer said.

Park staff partnered with the Army Corps of Engineers for a three-month effort to clear the river of several hundred downed trees, but there could still be sunken trees or floating branches – and the river is now flowing faster, faster even than the Green River.

Park officials do not recommend this river for inexperienced kayakers or canoe users.

“We think this would be best for someone who has (paddling) experience,” Schroer said. “This isn’t the best option for first-timers.”

On the other hand, some paddlers might actually enjoy the faster flow. And Schroer doesn’t want people to become discouraged by the river’s changes, as paddling is a fun, safe activity with proper care and planning.

“It’s a beautiful river passage that a lot of people would enjoy,” Schroer said. “We have the caves, but there’s a lot that’s going on at our surface.”

While on the river, personal flotation devices must be worn at all times and alcohol use is prohibited. River users should also expect the unexpected, as river conditions can quickly change.

Before visiting the park, park officials recommend reviewing the weather conditions and checking the river levels at www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/ontherivers.htm.

“Look ahead and know what you’re getting into before you head out on your trip,” Schroer said.

The river’s conditions could further change in the near future. Mammoth Cave National Park plans to remove Lock and Dam No. 5, and officials speculate the river might drop a bit further, and the river may flow a bit faster.

“We’re not sure what the impact would be,” Schroer said.

But for now, Nolin River is open for business.

“The park is excited to have coordinated with the Army Corps to make the Nolin passable again for the upcoming Labor Day holiday,” Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Barclay Trimble said in a news release. “Paddling is a popular activity here at Mammoth Cave and we appreciate all the hard work and contributions made by Corps employees to get this area open to the public again.”