National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Cumberland Gap National Historical Parkview from Pinnacle Overlook
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Frequently Asked Questions
 

Q: Where is the best place to view the Cumberland Gap?
A: The Pinnacle Overlook offers a panoramic view of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia and a view of the Cumberland Gap from above. It is a fantastic place for photographs! The Wilderness Road Trail is accessible from several locations and goes through the historic gap. 

 

Q: Do tours still visit the historic "Cudjo's Cave?"
A: Yes! Gap Cave has gone by many names over the years, including Cudjo's Cave. Tours visit the historic cave throughout the year. Reservations for the tours can be made up to one month in advance by calling the park visitor center at (606) 248-2817.

 

Q: Are electrical hookups available at campsites in the Wilderness Road Campground?
A:
Yes. 41 of the sites in the campground have electrical service. 30 amp and 50 amp service is available.  Heated showers and water are available at the comfort stations and a dump station is located near the campground entrance. 

Q: Can the campsites at the Wilderness Road campground be reserved?
A: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. On busy, summer holiday weekends sites with electricity may fill. But, for visitors with a generator, sites are always available!

 
Q: Is camping allowed in other areas of the park? 
A: Camping is allowed at designated backcountry campsites throughout the park. A backcountry permit is required and can be obtained at the park visitor center for free!
 
Q: Is lodging available in the park?
A: There are no accomodations in the park. Lodging is available in the nearby towns of Middlesboro, KY; Cumberland Gap, TN; and Tazewell, TN.
 

Q:  Is there horseback riding in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park?
A:
  While there are no commercial facilities which offer horseback riding in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, horses are allowed on designated trails and backcountry campsites.

 

Q:  Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails? 
A:
  Yes!  Cumberland Gap is a pet friendly park.  Dogs are allowed on the trails as long as they are on a leash.

 

Q:  What is the best way to see the Hensley Settlement?
A:  The historic Hensley Settlement is located in the eastern part of the park and is accessible by hiking the Ridge Trail or the Shillalah Creek Trail.  Shuttles to the Hensley Settlement depart from the visitor center daily from May through October. 

 

Q: Are there bike trails at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park?
A: Bicycles can be ridden on approximately 7 miles of park trails. A "Rails to Trails" program and Greenway trail system in adjacent communities provide additional biking opportunities and can be accessed from the park.

fog coming through Cumberland Gap as seen from the Pinnacle Overlook
View from the Pinnacle Overlook
Skyland Road leads to the Pinnacle Overlook for a fantastic view of the historic Cumberland Gap.
more...
The park visitor center houses a museum, book sales, handmade crafts, and an auditorium with 2 high definition films shown daily.
The park visitor center
The visitor center houses a museum, book sales, handmade crafts from the region, and an auditorium.
more...
Living history demonstration
History comes alive!
Special events and interpretive programs inspire and enlighten!
more...
Get the latest NOAA weather forecast
Get the latest NOAA weather forecast
Link to the NOAA website
more...
Brigadier General Felix Zollicoffer  

Did You Know?
Civil War buffs will appreciate the fact that the famous Confederate Brigadier General Felix Zollicoffer personally supervised the construction of the earthen fortifications at Cumberland Gap.

Last Updated: August 18, 2006 at 10:35 EST