Tri-State Peak Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Stand in three states at once! Hike to the unique Tri-State Peak in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Tri-State Peak Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand in three states at once! Hike to the unique Tri-State Peak in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
"It's something cool to experience if you're nearby or stopping by!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 2.5-mile hike is uphill with stairs; hydration is key!
🚶♀️ Consider a Walking Stick
Extra support can be helpful on the inclines and stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tri-State Peak Monument
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Stand with one foot in Kentucky, one in Tennessee, and one in Virginia! A truly unique geographical marker.
Daniel Boone Trail Marker
Along the hike to Tri-State Peak
Discover a piece of history on your hike, marking the path of legendary explorer Daniel Boone.
Cumberland Gap Hike
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
An invigorating 2.5-mile trek with uphill sections and stairs, offering a rewarding journey to the peak.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hike Smart for the Tri-State Peak
Manage Expectations for the View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 2.5-mile hike is uphill with stairs; hydration is key!
🚶♀️ Consider a Walking Stick
Extra support can be helpful on the inclines and stairs.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Hike
Dogs are welcome on the trail, as seen on Instagram!
🌦️ Embrace the Elements
Even a rainy day can make the hike epic and memorable.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 2.5-mile hike is uphill with stairs; hydration is key!
🚶♀️ Consider a Walking Stick
Extra support can be helpful on the inclines and stairs.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Hike
Dogs are welcome on the trail, as seen on Instagram!
🌦️ Embrace the Elements
Even a rainy day can make the hike epic and memorable.
🗺️ Check Park Maps
Familiarize yourself with the trails before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tri-State Peak hike a unique and memorable experience, especially the novelty of standing in three states at once. While the hike is rewarding, some note that the views from the peak can be obstructed by foliage. The historical markers along the trail add to the appeal, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the region.
"This is such a wonderful place!!! Although!!!!! I will say, it would be so much more beautiful if you could see all 3 sides clearly but it's still a nice little place notheless. It's something cool to experience if you're nearby or stopping by! The hike is about 2.5 miles there and back. It's not a loop, and it's a bunch of uphill with some stairs. There's a few resting places scattered throughout. Make sure you bring lots of water and definitely a walking stick."
Monica F
"Cumberland, Tennessee is home to a stunning and historic site. Hike along the famous Cumberland Gap, which was exhausting and difficult at times, to reach the summit of Tri-Peak Mountain. Hikers will be awarded standing in three states simultaneously: Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia."
Jay Midkiff
"The monument is cool but there's not much of a view. The trees and bushes are pretty grown up around it. But it's still worth the hike."
Dorinda Ingle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is accessible by car. The park straddles the borders of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. Use GPS coordinates for the visitor center or specific trailheads like the one for Tri-State Peak.
Parking is available at trailheads within the park, such as the Iron Forge area, which is a common starting point for the Tri-State Peak hike. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
Yes, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is an excellent destination for a day trip. The Tri-State Peak hike is manageable within a few hours.
Currently, there are no regular shuttle services within Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Visitors typically drive to trailheads and points of interest.
The park is accessible via US-25E, which runs through the Cumberland Gap. This highway connects to various state routes for further exploration within the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park does not charge an entrance fee, making it a free destination to explore.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and specific facilities may have seasonal hours.
No, advance booking is not required for the Tri-State Peak hike. It's a public trail within the national park.
Generally, no special permits are required for day hiking within Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Always check the official NPS website for any updates.
Yes, the park is open on holidays, but be aware that popular areas might be more crowded.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Tri-State Peak is approximately 2.5 miles roundtrip and can take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the peak.
The hike is considered moderate, with significant uphill sections and stairs. It's manageable for most fitness levels but requires some effort.
While you can stand in three states, the view from the monument itself can be partially obscured by trees and bushes.
Restrooms are typically available at the visitor center and some main parking areas, but not directly on the trail itself. Plan accordingly.
Nearby trails include the longer hike to Sand Cave and White Rocks Overlook, and the historic Daniel Boone trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tri-State Peak monument itself is a unique photo opportunity. Also, consider capturing the surrounding forest and any historical markers along the trails.
You can stand with your feet in each state, making for a fun photo. Capturing the expansive landscape might be challenging due to tree cover.
Morning light can be beautiful, but be mindful of potential fog in the gap. Overcast days can also offer diffused light for forest shots.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks. Check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, and a sturdy tripod can be useful if you plan on longer exposures or low-light photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the Daniel Boone trail marker along the way to add an educational element to your hike. While the view from the peak might be a bit overgrown, the novelty of the tripoint is usually a big hit with younger visitors. Consider shorter walks within the park if the full hike seems too challenging for very young children.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time. While the trail is generally safe, carrying a fully charged phone and basic first-aid supplies is always recommended. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak and standing in three states is a fantastic solo achievement.
🐶 Pet Owners
Your dog will likely enjoy the varied terrain and the opportunity to explore. Ensure they have enough water, especially on warmer days, and be mindful of other hikers on the trail. It's a great way to share the experience of this unique location with your four-legged friend.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Tri-State Peaks
These points are not just geographical curiosities; they often have historical significance tied to the original surveying and demarcation of state lines. While the monument at Cumberland Gap is a modern addition, the area itself is steeped in history, having been a crucial passageway for westward expansion. The hike to the peak also passes by historical markers, such as the Daniel Boone trail marker, adding another layer of interest to the visit.
While the primary draw is the unique geographical marker, the surrounding natural beauty and historical context enhance the overall experience. It's a chance to connect with both the natural landscape and the historical narrative of American expansion.
Hiking the Cumberland Gap Trails
For those seeking a longer adventure, the park offers trails like the 8.4-mile hike to Sand Cave and White Rocks Overlook, which provides more challenging terrain and expansive views. The park also features sections of the historic Cumberland Mountain Trail and the Wilderness Road, offering a deeper dive into the area's rich history. Hikers are advised to wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Many visitors appreciate the historical context embedded within the trails, such as the Daniel Boone trail marker. The experience of hiking here is often described as both physically rewarding and historically enriching, providing a tangible connection to the past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit