Straddling The Border Of Kentucky, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park Is One Of The Most Unique Places You'll Ever Visit
By Beth|Published April 18, 2023
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
The border of Kentucky and Virginia is characterized by rugged Appalachian Mountain scenery. It’s the kind of place that inspires adventure, and Daniel Boone himself once explored the region during his famous trips west. Visit today and you’ll find several points of interest along this boundary, one of which is the famous Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The park is shared between Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, and it’s positively brimming with beauty and natural wonders. Curious to learn more? Let’s explore!
Welcome to Cumberland Gap! This breathtaking destination in southwestern Virginia is often viewed as the gateway to the American West.
To visit this vast and beautiful park is to experience the same landscape explored by Native Americans, soldiers, explorers, and wildlife. It's estimated that over 300,000 people passed through the gap on their way out west to settle America.
Cumberland Gap National Historic Park is made up of 14,000 acres, 85, miles of trails, historic settlements, caves, mountain peaks, and endless adventure.
One of the main points of interest is the iconic sand cave. This giant rock formation is a half-domed chamber that measures 250 feet across and features striking colors on its ceiling.
Some of the most popular trails at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park include White Rocks Trail, Tri-State Peak Trail, Pinnacle Overlook Trail, Cumberland Gap via Object Lesson Road Trail, Ridge Trail, and Sugar Run Trail.
For those looking for a multi-day adventure, it's also possible to go camping in the park. The Wilderness Road Campground offers 160 sites and is located about 3 miles from the visitor's center in Virginia.
Have you ever visited Cumberland Gap National Historical Park in Virginia? What were some of your favorite adventures there? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For more information, you can visit the official National Park Service website.
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