Oh, the View Was Pretty Good, Too

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Cumberland Gap National Historic Park has a treasure trove of things to offer the visitor, based on their interest. The park contains the Wilderness Trail, traveled by Daniel Boone and thousands others, which opened the west to pioneers prior to the Revolutionary War. As I previously discussed, it was the site of a Civil War fort, and its strategic location (atop a mountain, referred to by one Civil War general as "America's Gibraltar") was an envious stronghold. And, oh, there's a pretty good view, too. The Pinnacle Overlook is accessible by a three-mile road that winds, curves, switches back, and contains turns so steep those brake lights you see are your own. Signs warn that no vehicle over 20 feet long is allowed on the road. That's very understandable. The reward, however, is a gorgeous view. It was highlighted on this trip by the foliage, which was starting to overtake the summer green. I've been to the Pinnacle Overlook twice, and both times it's been quite windy. Things were worse this time, given there was a "wind advisory" in the region (thanks to a cold front and a tropical system remnants moving into the area). If you want to visit, I'd recommend not wearing a cap/hat (or making sure it's very secure). If it's less than 80 degrees Fahrenheit you might want a windbreaker or jacket (depending on your tolerance for the conditions). But oh....oh....OH!!!!! Is that view worth it.