Cumberland Gap National Historical Park (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Cave Tour Alert!

A disorder known as White Nosed Syndrome is killing bats in eastern caves. While visiting caves in the park please do not wear or take any item that has been in other caves.
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Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

At Cumberland Gap, the first great gateway to the west, follow the buffalo, the Native American, the longhunter, the pioneer... all traveled this route through the mountains into the wilderness of Kentucky. Modern day explorers and travelers stand in awe at this great gateway and the many miles of trails and scenic features found in the park.

Hensley Settlement, Photo by Harold Jerrell

Step Back in Time

Follow the footsteps of early travelers along the Wilderness Road, experience the stories of the pioneer, the Civil War soldier, the traveler. Historic buildings and sites throughout the park provide opportunities to take a close look at the events that shaped a region and a nation.

Tours of the historic Hensley Settlement showcase life in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
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Underground Worlds

Beneath the mountains lie miles and miles of subterranean passages. These caves are dark, wet worlds with unique geologic formations and animals that have adapted to survival in the underground.

Ranger led tours take visitors into the depths of Gap Cave, a cave seen by pioneers as they traveled the historic Wilderness Road through Cumberland Gap into Kentucky.
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View from Pinnacle Overlook, Photo by Harold Jerrell

Wild Mountain Scenery

Scenic vistas, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests excite the senses and provide the opportunity to experience the Southern Appalachians up close. The forests and streams of the mountains provide habitat for numerous species of plants and animals.

85 miles of trails and numerous scenic areas provide the opportunity to explore the great outdoors!
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Shadows and fall color at the historic Hensley Settlement

General Management Plan

The General Management Plan will allow National Park Service staff to protect and preserve the natural and cultural resources of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and provide opportunities for park visitors.

A draft copy of the General Management Plan has been posted and is open for public comment until January 4, 2010.
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Write to

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
PO Box 1848
Middlesboro, KY 40965

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(606) 248-2817

Fax

(606) 248-7276

Climate

With a fairly mild climate, Cumberland Gap is a great place to visit any time of year! Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures commonly in the mid to upper 90's(F). Winters are generally mild with rain and some periods of snow January through March. Temperatures usually range in the 30's and 40's (F). Weather can sometimes be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. If hiking in the backcountry, please remember that temperatures at higher elevations are five to ten degrees cooler.