Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

I saw pictures on multiple websites for Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The views were gorgeous, so I wanted to go. I picked Sand Cave and White Rocks via Ewing Trail, an 8ish mile trail with 2,300 ft elevation gain. It had two instead of typical one destination - the cave and the view.

It took me around an hour and a half to get there. The parking lot was only 1/3 full. I started the hike around 9.30 am. Most of the hike was in dense forest. I love this kind of setting. It almost feels like you are on another planet or at least in a Harry Potter movie.

At the trailhead

Getting closer to the top

The incline was relatively quick, especially when it got closer to the "view". I was determined and sweaty - the east coast humidity definitely makes a difference. I passed several groups of boy scouts and finally got to the top. The view was slightly overcast, but the clouds just added to the whole experience.

Overcast view from the top of the mountain - White Rocks

As soon as I heard boy scouts catching up, I left the rocks and headed towards the cave. Shortly, I was descending towards running water. I wasn't sure what to expect. I crossed a shallow stream heading towards the cave. It was completely isolated, almost eerily... A small waterfall was dripping next to it. I approached it hoping to be refreshed, but the ground was wet so I backed off being cautious of slipping. The cave smelled like urine. I didn't like that humans invaded even this isolated part of the forest. I took a few pictures and turned around. 

The stream

The stream flowing from the top of the cave

Panoramic view of the cave

Peculiar geological structures of the rock

The rest of the hike was pretty uneventful, but long. I was tired after so much elevation gain, but satisfied that I still was able to hike longer hikes with higher elevation gain.

I didn't want to stop there, I felt good to hike more. I stopped at Pinnacle Overlook Trail, less than 0.2 miles from the parking lot. The view was worth it, very much worth it!

Finally, although a bit tired by now, I wanted to hike a shorter trail, Tri-State Peak Trail where 3 states come together. I don't think I have been to such a place before, so the idea of being in all three states, Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia was just too enticing! The trail was only 2.5 miles round trip with some elevation gain. It was pretty warm by now, and the elevation gain was really getting me winded.

I was determined to get there quickly to pass a few louder groups with kids and get a few minutes of peace at the top. And indeed I did!

It was a great adventure with a lot of hiking. Exhausted and yet satisfied with my accomplishment today, I headed back to the Airbnb.