We started just as the sun began to gild the tops of the high mountains. We ascended Cumberland Mountain, from the top of which the bright luminary of the day appeared to our view in all his rising glory; the mists dispersed and the floating clouds hasted away at his appearing. This is the famous Cumberland Gap...

Journal of James Smith, 1792

Know before you go

During a thunderstorm move away from the overlook. Lighting strikes here often.

Don't leave valuables visible in vehicles.

Stay on trails to avoid injury. Shortcuts start erosion.

Watch out for snakes. Rocks provide great habitat for copperheads and rattlesnakes.

Don't write on rocks or handrails.

Leave what you find here for others to enjoy.

Follow the paved paths to the overlook, and stay on the trail. Parents with strollers and wheelchair users can reach the overlook without running into steps by using the accessible trail.

Short Hikes from Here

Fort McCook - * 0.8 mile (1.3 km) downhill 600 feet (180 m)

Sugar Run / Lewis Hollow Intersection - * 1.9 miles (3 km)

Long Hikes from Here

Hensley Settlement - * 12 miles (19 km)

White Rocks - * 19 miles (30 km)

* One-way distance

Backcountry permits are required if you plan to camp at designated sites along the way. Let someone know your hiking plans before you go.

Remember, Pinnacle Road is locked at sundown.

Marker is on Pinnacle Road, on the right when traveling east.

Courtesy hmdb.org

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