Cumberland Gap National Historical Park - General Park Information

With the opening of the Cumberland Gap Highway Tunnel and the rerouting of US 25E through the tunnel, Cumberland Gap and the Wilderness Road have been returned to their late 1700s appearance.

Pinnacle Overlook, providing a view into the gap as well as affording views of the mountain range and parts of three states, is accessible via a 4-mile paved road from the visitor center. No trailers or vehicles more than 20 feet long are allowed.
Still a wild area, the park offers approximately 70 miles of hiking trails ranging from relatively easy nature trails to those requiring an overnight trek. Many park features, including Sand Cave, a multi-colored sandstone overhang, and White Rocks, a prominent sandstone outcropping, can be reached only by trail. Ridge Trail, a 19-mile-long route offering panoramas of the valley, approaches five primitive campsites, all accessible by foot. The park also has 160 developed campsites.

Hensley Settlement can be reached by an all-day hike or, during the summer, by a shuttle originating at the park's visitor center. Phone for a shuttle schedule; reservations are recommended. A reconstruction of a community that was occupied 1903-51, the settlement sits atop a mountain in the eastern end of the park. With more than 70 acres of land under cultivation, it has several reconstructed log houses, barns and outbuildings. Reminiscent of a time much earlier than that from which it actually dates, Hensley seems like a community of the late 1700s or early 1800s.

It is not advisable to hike alone; overnight camping requires a permit. Trail guides and other information can be obtained at the visitor center. The visitor center also contains a museum with weapons and tools dating from the pioneer and Civil War eras. Throughout the year ranger-led programs, suitable for the entire family, introduce visitors to the historical, cultural and natural aspects of the park; phone for a schedule of events.

The park is open daily 8-dusk. The visitor center at the park entrance is open daily 8-5; closed Dec. 25.
ADMISSION to the park is free.

PETS must be restricted at all times, either in vehicles or by leash, and are not allowed in public buildings.
ADDRESS inquiries to the Superintendent, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Box 1848, Middlesboro, KY 40965; phone (606) 248-2817.