Things To Do in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Kentucky

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Things to Do

The Cumberland Gap is an opening in the Appalachian Mountains where Daniel Boone and other pioneers crossed over to the west. The park has several significant historical sites as well as hiking trails and scenic drives.

Historical Sites Inside and Outside the Park

Before visiting the park, take a look at the town of Cumberland. There, you can find historical sites and information as well as a covered bridge and a place to shop. There is a National Park Service parking lot where you can see an iron furnace once used to extract iron from limestone. Once you get to the park, go to the Visitor’s Center where you will find a wealth of trail, road, and historical information. Relax and watch the 25-minute long movie which summarizes the area’s history and highlights. After leaving the center, try driving through the mountain in a tunnel and into Tennessee. You can also drive up to Pinnacle Peak to see remnants of the Civil War and a view of all three states.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park has an abundance of trails, some of which stretch for many miles. One of these trails is the Tri State Peak Trail. At the top of the peak, you will see what’s left of the Civil War battles to claim and reclaim this important passageway. There is also a place where you can position yourself in all three states at once. There is a two-hour tour available of the Gap Cave which was once used as a hospital during the war, and you can still see the graffiti left by the soldiers.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Kentucky.