Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
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Understand
History
Landscape
Flora and fauna
Climate
Summers at Cumberland Gap are hot and humid, with temperatures commonly in the mid to upper 90s (°F). Winters are generally mild with rain and some periods of snow January through March. Temperatures usually range in the 30s and 40s. Weather can sometimes be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations.If hiking in the backcountry, please remember that temperatures at higher elevations are five to ten degrees cooler.
Get in
The closest major airport is in Knoxville, Tennessee, approximately 85 miles away.
Visitors traveling on Interstate 75 in Kentucky should exit on Highway 25E at Corbin. Cumberland Gap is 50 miles south of Corbin on 25E.
There is no public transportation in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Get around
Backcountry trails lead to remote, wilderness areas. Backcountry camping is allowed in designated sites with a permit. Permits are free of charge and must be obtained at the park visitor center.
Fees and permits
Cumberland Gap has no entrance fees. Backcountry camping requires a free permit, obtainable from the Visitor Center (see below).
Do
Skyland Road and the Pinnacle Overlook: be sure to take this beautiful road up! You can see Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee.
There are also about 85 miles of hiking trails that cover the 24,000-acre national park. Distances range from a 1/4-mile loop trail to the 21-mile-long Ridge Trail.
There are also about 85 miles of hiking trails that cover the 24,000-acre national park. Distances range from a 1/4-mile loop trail to the 21-mile-long Ridge Trail.
Sleep
Camping
Wilderness Road CampgroundThe Wilderness Road Campground is approximately 3 miles from the park visitor center off of Highway 58 in Virginia. It has 160 sites in a beautiful wooded setting. 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups are available at 41 of the sites. Hot showers and potable water are located in the comfort stations. A dump station is located near the campground entrance. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campground is open year around. Camping fees are $12 per night per site for tent sites with no electricity and $17 per night per site for electrical hookup.
Backcountry camping
Backcountry trails lead to remote, wilderness areas. Backcountry camping is allowed in designated sites with a permit. Permits are free of charge and must be obtained at the park visitor center.
Stay safe
Bears are active in the park. Please be sure to store food in a secure location when not in use and dispose of garbage appropriately (either take it with you or place into a park bear proof container). There are two venomous snakes in the park: The Northern Copperhead and the Timber Rattler. These snakes are not a problem if left alone.