Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Travel Page by goingsolo

Cumberland Gap is a place that existed before time, in a sense. The Appalacian Mountains acted as a natural barrier, halting any movement west. The Gap is a large indentation created by the force of nature which created a break in the Appalacian Mountains. It lies at the intersection of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia.

Native Americans discovered the gap long before and crossed the gap in pursuit of game animals who were migrating westward. By the late 17th century, English settlers had heard of this route, referred to as the "Road into Kaintuck". This was the pathway to locating animals for hunting and land on which to build homes. In 1775, Daniel Boone was commissioned to blaze a trail through the gap. Boone created what became known as the Wilderness Trail. Many followed and built homes in the land. During the Revolutionary War, these settlements became even more important as they secured the gateway for growth of the young nation about to be kown as America.

Following the revolution, tens of thousands crossed the gap into this land. As a result of this large settlement and thanks to Cumberland Gap, the state of Kentucky came into existence. And the Gap, until other roads were discovered or built, was the way into the west.

Following the revolution

Cumberland Gap is known for several things. During the days of pioneers and frontiersman, Daniel Boone followed the path of Native Americans through the gap and created the Wilderness Trail, opening the door for expansion westward. During the Civil War, Cumberland Mountain was both a lookout point and a fortress for the Confederate Army. And, throughout time, Cumberland Gap has been a place of unique landscape and beauty.

I took a brief visit over to Cumberland Gao and quickly became enchanted. So, if this intro has captured your interest, step inside and take a closer look at the Wilderness Road and the beauty that lies within.