Explore the Rich History and Natural Beauty of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Discover the beauty and history of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, where nature and heritage intertwine in the Appalachian Mountains.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers visitors a unique blend of history and stunning natural landscapes. Discover trails, historic sites, and breathtaking views that showcase the merging of culture and nature in this iconic national reserve.
A brief summary to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
- Middlesboro, Kentucky, 40965, US
- +1606-248-2817
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds on the trails.
- Don't forget to bring plenty of water and snacks, as some trails can be strenuous.
- Check out the visitor center for maps and information on guided tours and ranger-led programs.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky and uneven terrain of the park.
- Explore the historical sites along the trails for a deeper understanding of the park's significance.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head to Middlesboro, Kentucky, which is the nearest city to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. From Middlesboro, take US-25E South for approximately 8 miles. Follow the signs for Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The entrance to the park is located off of US-25E and is well-marked. There is no entrance fee to the park, but be sure to check for any parking fees if applicable in certain areas.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to Middlesboro, KY. Once you arrive at the Middlesboro bus station, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, as public transportation options directly to the park are limited. The distance from the bus station to the park entrance is approximately 10 miles, and taxi fares may vary but typically range around $15-$25.
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Bicycle
For those looking to explore the area on two wheels, biking is a great option. If you are already in Middlesboro, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop and ride towards Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The ride will take you through scenic routes, but be prepared for some elevation changes as you approach the park. Ensure you wear a helmet and follow all traffic laws. The distance from Middlesboro to the park is about 8 miles, which will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on your cycling pace.
Discover more about Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kentucky golden horse
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Discover the Kentucky Golden Horse Sculpture, a stunning tribute to equestrian heritage and a perfect pit stop for travelers in Williamsburg, Kentucky.
Former Holston River Bridge Abutments
51.8 km
Discover the remnants of the Former Holston River Bridge Abutments in Jefferson City, Tennessee – a historical landmark rich with stories and scenic beauty.
General Longstreet Museum
55.2 km
Explore the legacy of General James Longstreet at this engaging museum in Russellville, TN, featuring interactive exhibits and a wealth of historical artifacts.
Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker
60.0 km
Explore the Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker in Morristown, TN—a significant tribute to a Revolutionary War hero and a slice of American history.
Witt Foundry Historial Site
60.5 km
Explore the Witt Foundry Historical Site in Morristown, TN, and uncover the stories of Tennessee's industrial past and craftsmanship.
Rice Grist Mill
61.9 km
Step into history at the Rice Grist Mill, a captivating historical landmark in Norris, Tennessee, surrounded by the stunning Appalachian landscape.
Fort Anderson
68.0 km
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Kentucky Coal Mining Museum
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The Skeleton House
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Black Mountain
71.3 km
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Portal 31 Coal Mine & Tour
72.2 km
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Zoo Knoxville
74.0 km
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Pittsburg and Wilderness Road Historical Marker
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Daniel Boone National Forest
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Bible Covered Bridge
74.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gap Cave
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Olde Towne Cumberland Gap Ghost Tours
6.1 km
Delve into the supernatural with Olde Towne Cumberland Gap Ghost Tours, where history meets haunting tales in a captivating journey.
Little Congress Bicycle Museum
6.1 km
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Cumberland Gap
6.3 km
Explore the majestic beauty and rich history of Cumberland Gap, a stunning mountain pass at the crossroads of Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Cumberland Gap Marker
6.3 km
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Tri-State Trail
6.6 km
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KY-TN-VA Tri-State Point
6.6 km
Explore the unique KY-TN-VA Tri-State Point, a historical landmark where three states meet, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Harrison Mayes Roadside Cross
6.7 km
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Wilderness Road State Park
7.4 km
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Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Visitor Center
8.2 km
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Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Sign
8.3 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, where adventure and nature meet.
Hensley Settlement
8.9 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Hensley Settlement, a historical place museum in the heart of Kentucky.
Bell County Historical Society
9.7 km
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Middlesboro / Arthur Museum
10.0 km
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Boone's Ridge
11.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Sonny's BBQ
59.7 km
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Pizza House-Pine Knot
74.0 km
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Jackie's Dream
76.0 km
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Ale' Rae’s GastroPub
77.1 km
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Bistro By The Tracks
77.2 km
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The Bohemian Knoxville
77.6 km
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Kefi
78.0 km
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Lonesome Dove Knoxville
78.0 km
Experience exquisite American fine dining at Lonesome Dove Knoxville, where culinary creativity meets warm hospitality in Tennessee's vibrant capital.
The Melting Pot
78.0 km
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STIR
78.1 km
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Osteria Stella
78.1 km
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Southern Grit
78.1 km
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Kaizen
78.1 km
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Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive
78.4 km
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BABALU - Knoxville
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Whistle Stop Antiques
6.0 km
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Gertie's Commissary
6.1 km
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Gap Creek Coffee House
6.2 km
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Village Shops
6.5 km
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Signatures Formal Boutique
8.7 km
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Roses Discount Store
8.7 km
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Bath & Body Works
8.8 km
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Middlesboro Mall
8.8 km
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Antique & Modern Jewelry
9.6 km
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A Touch of Class
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Allstar Apparel and Awards
10.9 km
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Pickers Paradise
20.0 km
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Hot Off The Press Boutique
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The Shop
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What A Princess
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Juice Spot
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Angelo's In The Gap
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Nineteen19 Grill and Bar
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Caboose Saloon
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Frosty Mug Drive In
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Cowboys Mexican Grill and Pizzeria
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Bubby's of Middlesboro
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Sonic Drive-In
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Royal Waffle King
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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El Mariachi Mexican Grill
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Pelancho's
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La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant
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Cumberland avenue La Esperanza
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Conley's Drive-In Restaurant
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