Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
America's first great gateway to the West — where pioneers, bison, and Daniel Boone crossed into Kentucky.
The Gap That Opened a Nation
Long before highways and railroads, Cumberland Gap was the natural pass through the Appalachian Mountains — the first great gateway to the American West. For thousands of years, bison, Native Americans, and longhunters traversed this natural break. In 1775, Daniel Boone blazed the Wilderness Road through the Gap, opening Kentucky and the trans-Appalachian West to settlement. Today, the 24,000-acre national park preserves this hallowed ground.
14221 Hwy 988, Middlesboro, KY 40965
(606) 248-2817
Pinnacle Overlook
Drive or hike to the ridgetop overlook for sweeping views of Middlesboro's meteor crater and three states.
Gap Cave
Guided tours through a majestic underground cave system with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams.
85+ Miles of Trails
Hike the historic Wilderness Road, explore Hensley Settlement, or trek to the Tri-State Peak.
Visitor Center
Interactive exhibits on pioneer history, Daniel Boone, and the gap that opened the American West.
Gear up for Cumberland Gap
Hand-picked hiking, camping and fishing gear, plus trail books, for Middlesboro adventures.
Stay near Cumberland Gap
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