Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cleopatra's Pool is located deep in the Gap Cave
Cumberland Gap was the first great gateway to the west. Come follow the path of bison, Native Americans, longhunters, and pioneers. Walk where 300,000 people crossed the Appalachians to settle America. Explore 85 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of wilderness. Stand in 3 states at once. Explore a cave, see Hensley Settlement, or camp under the stars. Come find your connection to Cumberland Gap.
Map showing location of park.
Chadwell Gap Trail is blocked by downed trees and debris after storm damage. A person in outdoor gear is seen in the distance working to assess the trail.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Staff Continue to Assess Impacts from Hurricane Helene
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park staff and volunteers continue to assess conditions and address damage from Hurricane Helene.
Backpackers on a trail at Cumberland Gap.
Tourism to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park contributes $27.8 million to local economy
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 797,346 visitors to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park in 2023 spent over $25.6 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 312 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of over $27.8 million.
Cumberland Gap seeks public comment on proposed changes to fee structures for guided tours, picnic shelter rentals, and front country camping
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park seeks public comment on proposed changes to fees for guided tours, picnic shelter rentals, and front country camping. Comments will be accepted by mail or email through September 4, 2024.
Man in 1700s period clothing doing woodcarving
America's 250th: Gaining Independence on the Frontier
Discover 1700s frontier life during the "Gaining Independence on the Frontier" event April 26-28 at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park! This free, family-friendly event will include demonstrations of leatherworking, blacksmithing, basketweaving, and more.
Hensley Settlement
Photo by NPS Photo
View from the Pinnacle Overlook
Photo by NPS Photo
Pioneers
Photo by Harold Jerrell
Sand Cave
Photo by NPS Photo
Cleopatra's Pool in the Gap Cave
Photo by NPS Photo