Exploring Boone’s Wilderness Road

Cumberland Gap & Pinnacle Overlook

Have you ever wondered what it may have been like to follow in the footsteps of Daniel Boone as he made his way along the Wilderness Road into Kaintucke?  Those hearty adventurers were ordinary, everyday folks that sought to build a better life in a new country; little did they know that they were really on their way to build a nation.

On May 12, 2012, you’ll have a rare opportunity to step back in time; to have your own experience of crossing through the Gap.  Witness frontier hostilities and sense in first-person the nothing-for-certain feelings that were everyday fare for the pioneers in the 1770’s.  This guided historical adventure tour offered by Pine Mountain State Resort Park will feature visits to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and Wilderness Road State Park to trace the steps of Daniel Boone and those that came both before and after him along the path of the pioneers. 

Martin's Station at Wilderness Road State Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a 24,000 acre park located at the border between Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.  The park abounds in rich history, spectacular overlooks, unique rock formations, and cascading waterfalls.  The Cumberland Gap is a sizable natural break in the Applachian Mountains.

Wilderness Road State Park encompasses 310 acres that lie astride the Wilderness Road, a route carved by Daniel Boone in 1775.  The route, which followed a buffalo trace, opened America’s first western frontier.  The central feature of the site is Martin’s Station, a replica of a colonial frontier fort that was near this site in 1775.

Colonials at Martin's Station

Highlights include a visit to Martin’s Station, a colonial era fort, where you’ll witness spectacular frontier action as Indians attack the fort and settlement.  You’ll embark on a moderate 1/2 mile hike to historic Cumberland Gap Pass, and delight to breathtaking views as you glimpse three states from the lofty Pinnacle Overlook (2,440 ft).  Natural, historic, and colonial photographic opportunities abound on this adventure trek.

The registration fee is $15 per person and van transportation will be provided to the first 10 persons to register.  Participants are encouraged to bring a day pack with water, snacks, and a lunch.  The hike is moderate so wear appropriate footwear.  Total field trip time is 9 hours.  Advanced registration is required; departure time from the park is 8:00 AM. 

To register for the historical adventure tour, contact Pine Mountain State Resort Park at (800) 325-1712.

Tags: Hiking, Naturalist Dean Henson