Best Hikes in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, VA

Default image for Pinnacle Overlook Trail, a 0.2-mile trail in Middlesboro, KY (US)

0.2 mi
0.3 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Pinnacle Overlook Trail

5.0

Middlesboro, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for White Rocks and Sand Cave Hike, a 7.7-mile trail in Ewing, VA (US)

7.7 mi
12.4 km

Hard Loop

White Rocks and Sand Cave Hike

0.0

Ewing, Virginia

Created By:

HikingUpward

Default image for Tennessee Road Trail to Iron Furnace, a 0.7-mile trail in Ewing, VA (US)

0.7 mi
1.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Tennessee Road Trail to Iron Furnace

0.0

Ewing, Virginia

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Wilderness Road Trail, a 1.4-mile trail in Ewing, VA (US)

1.4 mi
2.3 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Wilderness Road Trail

0.0

Ewing, Virginia

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gap Cave Trail, a 0.2-mile trail in Ewing, VA (US)

0.2 mi
0.3 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Gap Cave Trail

0.0

Ewing, Virginia

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Pinnacle Overlook Loop Trail, a 0.4-mile trail in Middlesboro, KY (US)

0.4 mi
0.6 km

Easy Loop

Pinnacle Overlook Loop Trail

0.0

Middlesboro, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Tri-State Peak and Pinnacle Hike, a 4.7-mile trail in Cumberland Gap, TN (US)

4.7 mi
7.6 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Tri-State Peak and Pinnacle Hike

0.0

Cumberland Gap, Tennessee

Created By:

HikingUpward

Key Takeaways

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers a rich blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, exploring caves, and learning about the area's role in American history.

Located in Ewing, VA, the park straddles Kentucky and Tennessee, making it easily accessible and a gateway to exploring the Appalachian region.

Visitors can delve into the stories of early pioneers, Civil War battles, and the geological wonders of the Cumberland Gap through exhibits, ranger programs, and self-guided tours.

About Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, located in Ewing, Virginia. This stunning park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs. Discover iconic landmarks like the Iron Furnace, panoramic views from Pinnacle Overlook (crossing into both Kentucky and Virginia!), and the fascinating Gap Cave (formerly Cudjo's Cave) with its ongoing explorations and tours. Don't miss the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Daniel Boone along the historic Wilderness Road Trail, which is a flat, 1.4 mile out and back trail near the Daniel Boone Visitor Center where biking and dogs are permitted.

For a truly memorable experience, consider the Tri-State Peak and Pinnacle Hike, a 4.7-mile adventure that allows you to stand in three states at once and witness breathtaking vistas. Or, tackle the 7.7-mile White Rocks and Sand Cave Hike, showcasing the unique wind cave and the stunning White Rocks summit. Remember that the Tri-State Peak and Pinnacle Hike trailhead is in a remote location which requires a 2 hour drive from Abingdon and Interstate 81. For overnight backpacking trips along the White Rocks and Sand Cave Hike, permits are required and can be obtained from the Visitor's Center in Kentucky. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers an unforgettable journey through history and natural splendor.