Cumberland Gap was the first great gateway to the west. Come follow the path of bison, Native Americans, longhunters, and pioneers. Walk where 300,000 people crossed the Appalachians to settle America. Explore 85 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of wilderness. Stand in 3 states at once. Explore a cave, see Hensley Sett
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe park is open 24 hours a day to pedestrian and cyclist, weather permitting. Some services and facilities have separate hours, however; please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 6062482817 · cuga_interpretation@nps.gov
By Plane The closest major airport is located in Knoxville, Tennessee approximately 85 miles away. Flights can also be made into Lexington, Kentucky approximately 130 miles away. By Car The park entrance is located on Highway 25E just south of Middlesboro Kentucky.
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Cumberland Gap National Historical Park — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you camp at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Ampitheater Walkway, Bicycle Trail, Boone Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
The park is open 24 hours a day to pedestrian and cyclist, weather permitting. Some services and facilities have separate hours, however; please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
Nearby sites
George Green, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Martins Fork Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
George Green, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Laurel River Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
