Cumberland Gap National Historical Park travel guide

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park travel guide

National Airports

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park does not have its own airport. However, there are several nearby airports that visitors can use to access the park:

Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI): Located in Blountville, Tennessee, Tri-Cities Regional Airport is approximately 80 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS): Located in Alcoa, Tennessee, Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport is approximately 90 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Blue Grass Airport (LEX): Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Blue Grass Airport is approximately 125 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Louisville International Airport (SDF): Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Louisville International Airport is approximately 200 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service from any of these airports to access Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Trains in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

There are no train stations located within or near Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The closest Amtrak train station is located in Middlesboro, Kentucky, approximately 20 miles from the park. However, visitors would need to arrange transportation from the station to the park as there is no direct public transportation available. Additionally, the Middlesboro station only serves the Amtrak Thruway Bus, which connects passengers to the Amtrak station in Corbin, Kentucky. From Corbin, visitors can access additional Amtrak train routes.

Buses in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

There is no public transportation system that directly serves Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. However, there are several bus companies that operate in the area and offer transportation to nearby towns and cities.

Greyhound: Greyhound operates a bus station in Middlesboro, Kentucky, approximately 20 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to the park.

Southeastern Stages: Southeastern Stages operates a bus station in Harrogate, Tennessee, approximately 10 miles from the park. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to the park.

Barons Bus: Barons Bus operates a bus station in London, Kentucky, approximately 50 miles from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to the park.

Visitors are advised to check the schedules and fares of these bus companies in advance as they may be subject to change.

How to get to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is located in the tri-state area where the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia meet. Here are some ways to get to the park:

By car: The most common way to get to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is by car. The park can be accessed from US Highway 25E or US Highway 58. Visitors can enter the park through the Cumberland Gap Tunnel, which is located off of US Highway 25E.

By bus: As mentioned earlier, several bus companies operate in the area and offer transportation to nearby towns and cities. Visitors can take a bus to Middlesboro, Kentucky, Harrogate, Tennessee, or London, Kentucky, and then take a taxi or rental car to the park.

By plane: The closest major airports to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park are the McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky. Both airports are approximately a two-hour drive from the park. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or arrange for shuttle service to the park.

By train: As mentioned earlier, there is no train station located near Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The closest Amtrak station is located in Middlesboro, Kentucky, approximately 20 miles from the park. Visitors can take a taxi or rental car from the station to the park.

What is the best time to travel to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

The best time to travel to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park depends on what activities you want to do and what weather conditions you prefer. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

Spring: March to May is a popular time to visit the park because the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, it can still be chilly in March and April.

Summer: June to August is the busiest time in the park, with long days and warm weather. However, it can also be quite humid and there may be occasional thunderstorms.

Fall: September to November is another popular time to visit the park because of the beautiful fall foliage. Temperatures are cooler, and there are fewer crowds.

Winter: December to February is the least crowded time to visit the park, but temperatures can be very cold and there may be snow or ice on the trails.

Overall, the best time to visit Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, summer may be the best time to go.

How to get around Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is spread across three states – Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia – so it’s important to plan your transportation accordingly. Here are some ways to get around the park:

By car: The most convenient way to get around the park is by car. There are several scenic drives that provide access to overlooks, historic sites, and trailheads. The park has several parking areas for visitors to leave their cars while they explore.

On foot: There are many trails in the park that provide opportunities for hiking and walking. Some trails are short and easy, while others are longer and more challenging. Be sure to bring appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking.

By bike: Biking is allowed on some of the park’s roads and on a few designated trails. Visitors should bring their own bikes, as there are no bike rentals available in the park.

Shuttle service: During the summer months, a shuttle service operates between the park’s visitor center and the Pinnacle Overlook, which provides a stunning view of the surrounding area. This service is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Guided tours: The park offers guided tours that provide visitors with a more in-depth look at the history and natural features of the area. These tours are led by park rangers and are available for a fee.

Overall, visitors to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park have several options for getting around, but having a car is the most convenient way to explore the park.

Accommodations in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park does not have any lodges or cabins within the park boundaries, but there are several accommodation options in the surrounding areas. Here are some options:

Middlesboro, Kentucky: This town is located just a few miles from the park and has several hotels and motels, including the Holiday Inn Express and the Days Inn.

Harrogate, Tennessee: Harrogate is located about 10 miles from the park and has several hotel options, including the Cumberland Inn and Suites and the Holiday Inn Express.

Tazewell, Tennessee: Tazewell is located about 20 miles from the park and has several hotel and motel options, including the Country Inn and Suites and the Budget Host Inn.

Campgrounds: There are two campgrounds located within the park – Wilderness Road Campground and Hensley Settlement Campground. Both campgrounds have basic amenities, including restrooms and picnic tables, but do not have hookups for RVs.

It’s important to note that lodging options may vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s best to make reservations in advance. Additionally, there are several vacation rental options available in the area through websites such as Airbnb and VRBO.