Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

The story of the first doorway to the west is commemorated at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, located where the borders of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet. Carved by wind and water, Cumberland Gap forms a major break in the formidable Appalachian Mountain chain. First used by large game animals in their migratory journeys, followed by Native Americans, the Cumberland Gap was the first and best avenue for the settlement of the interior of this nation. From 1775 to 1810, the Gap's heyday, between 200,000 and 300,000 men, women, and children crossed the Gap into the unknown land of Kentucky.

US 25E South
P.O. Box 1848
Middlesboro, KY 40965-1848
(606)248-2817 - Headquarters
(606)248-2817 - Visitor Information

By Plane
The closest major airport is located in Knoxville, Tennessee about one hour drive from Cumberland Gap.

By Car
Visitors traveling on Interstate 75 in Kentucky should exit on 25E at Corbin. Cumberland Gap is located 50 miles south of Corbin on 25E.

Visitors traveling on Interstate 81 in Tennessee should exit on 25E at Morristown, Tennessee. The park is located 50 miles northwest on 25E.

The park can also be accessed from Virginia by traveling west on Highway 58 to its intersection with 25E in Tennessee.

By Plane
There is no public transportation in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Getting Around
Leaving the Visitor Center, park visitors can drive a winding four-mile-long road up the mountain to the Pinnacle Overlook (elevation 2,440 feet) for a spectacular view into the three states of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee. The road is closed to vehicles 20 feet or longer in length. When park staff is available, shuttles to the Overlook can be arranged; cost is $1.00 per person.

Over 55 miles of hiking trails meander through eastern deciduous forest in this 20,000 acre national park. Distances range from a 1/4-mile loop trail to the 21-mile-long Ridge Trail. Trails lead to Hensley Settlement, a restored mountain community located atop isolated Brush Mountain. Folks can visit chestnut-hewn cabins and learn about the self-sufficient lifestyle of the Hensley and Gibbon families, who kept alive characteristics of early pioneer life. Restored by the National Park Service, the Settlement is accessible by hiking, horseback, or shuttle (seasonal; shuttle reservations are recommended).

Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures commonly in the mid to upper 90s. Winters are generally mild with rain and some periods of snow January through March. Temperatures usually range in the 30s and 40s. If hiking in the backcountry, please remember that temperatures on the mountain are at least 10 degrees cooler.

Wear comfortable sportswear appropriate to the season. Good walking shoes will definitely make for a more pleasant visit.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Camping
• Educational Programs
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Wilderness Area
• Wildlife Viewing
• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks

Recommended Activities
Folks visiting Cumberland Gap not only have the opportunity to journey back into history, tracing the footsteps of notables such as Daniel Boone, but can also participate in a wonderful medley of ranger-guided activities. Toe-tapping mountain music, tours to the restored Hensley Settlement, walks along the Wilderness Road, longhunter and pioneer encampments, and campfire programs are but a sampling of the programs offered. Each program offered by park rangers introduces visitors to the magic which makes national parks so special.

Sightseeing at the historical sites; observing plants and wildlife on the trails; hiking; and picnicking at designated areas.