Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

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CONTENTS

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Throughout the ages, poets, songwriters, novelists, journal writers, historians and artists have captured the grandeur of the Cumberland Gap. James Smith, in his journal of 1792, penned what is perhaps one of the most poignant descriptions of this national and historically significant landmark: "We started just as the sun began to gild the tops of the high mountains. We ascended Cumberland Mountain, from the top of which the bright luminary of day appeared to our view in all his rising glory; the mists dispersed and the floating clouds hasted away at his appearing. This is the famous Cumberland Gap..." Thanks to the vision of Congress, who in 1940 authorized Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, visitors today can still bask in its beauty and immerse themselves in its rich history. The story of the first doorway to the west is commemorated at the national park, located where the borders of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet. Carved by wind and water, Cumberland Gap forms a major break in the formidable Appalachian Mountain chain. First used by large game animals in their migratory journeys, followed by Native Americans, the Cumberland Gap was the first and best avenue for the settlement of the interior of this nation. From 1775 to 1810, the Gap's heyday, between 200,000 and 300,000 men, women, and children from all walks of life, crossed the Gap into "Kentuckee."

IN DEPTH

Natural World Carved by wind and water, Cumberland Gap forms a major break in the Appalachian Mountain chain. Stretching for 20 miles along Cumberland Mountain and ranging from 1 to 4 miles...read more

Plants As may be expected, the varied landscapes and elevations of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park provide habitat for a diverse vegetation assemblage. We presently have 855 species of plants...read more

Animals Animals Extending from 1100 to 3500 feet above sea level and across various habitat types, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park supports a rather diverse animal assemblage. The current recorded...read more

Geology Geologic Formations Along the south face of Cumberland Mountain, in Virginia, are 24 caves varying from 20 feet to over six miles in length. These caves occur in the...read more

Sights to See Nearby Attractions Nearby National Park Service Areas Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area 90mi Andrew Johnson National Historic Site 80mi Great Smoky Mountains National Park 120mi Mammoth Cave National Park 225mi Other Local...read more

Camping Wilderness Road Campground The Wilderness Road Campground is located approximately 3 miles from the park visitor center off of Highway 58 in Virginia. It has 160 sites in a beautiful...read more

Just For Kids Park Fun The Pioneer Playhouse! Kids and kids at heart can experience the life of a pioneer at the pioneer playhouse in the visitor center. Don a tri-corn hat, a chamise,...read more

Planning Your Visit Operating Hours & Seasons The visitor center is open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  The visitor center is closed on Christmas Day. Park grounds and picnic areas are open daily. The road leading...read more

Park Regulations & Safety Alcohol Policy Alcohol is allowed at individual camp sites but not permitted in public areas or buildings within the park. Open containers are not allowed in a vehicle...read more

Visitor Services Visitor Centers Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Visitor Center houses a museum with hands-on exhibits, book sales outlet, an auditorium featuring two films, and Cumberland Crafts, a member of the...read more

PARK PHOTOS

Cumberland Gap : Cumberland Gap, 2560
Cumberland Gap, 2560
National Park Service
Cumberland Gap : Cumberland Gap, 7070
Cumberland Gap, 7070
National Park Service
 

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