Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
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Cumberland Gap National Historical
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Contact Information:
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
US 25E South
P.O. Box 1848
Middlesboro, KY 40965
606-248-2817
http://www.nps.gov/cuga/
Size: 20,463 acres
Location: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park includes sections in southeastern Kentucky, northeastern Tennessee, and southwestern Virginia. Accessible via US 25E from Kentucky and Tennessee or US 58 from Virginia.
Description: This mountain pass on the Wilderness Road, explored by Daniel Boone, developed into a main artery of the great trans-Allegheny migration for settlement of "the Old West" and an important military objective in the Civil War.
Activities: Visitors to Cumberland Gap can journey back into history by participating in activities including nature hikes, Appalachian music and Saturday evening campfire programs. On a daily basis, visitors can enjoy self-guided hikes, spend time in the visitor center museum and movie theater, or join park rangers on guided tours. For information about upcoming programs, call 606-248-2817. To join guided tours, please call for reservations up to 30 days in advance.Hensley Settlement Tours: Go home to the mountains during this journey to the historic log-cabin community. The four hour tour includes a one-mile walk through the settlement, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a light snack and a drink. May 1 - Nov. 14: 9:00 am and 1:30 pm. Adults - $14.00, Children 12 and under - $8.00
Gap Cave Tours: Join park rangers on an exciting two-hour adventure exploring this majestic underground cathedral. During the one-mile tour, you'll walk along the wilderness road trail to the cave entrance, then through five levels of the cave via 183 steps. Tickets must be purchased at least 1/2 hour in advance at the visitor center.
Operating Hours: The Visitor Center is open daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Labor Day to Memorial Day. The Visitor Center is closed on Christmas Day. Park grounds and picnic areas are open daily. The road leading to the Pinnacle Overlook may be closed periodically due to inclement weather, including ice, snow, and lightning.
History: Authorized on June 11, 1940.
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Historical Parks
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