Photo by Robert J. Cetera

Gap Cave

Gap Cave Tours

Alert! A disorder known as White-Nose Syndrome has been found in caves in the eastern United States and is killing hundreds of thousands of bats. Evidence suggests that the fungus that causes the disorder may possibly be spread by humans who venture into different caves. Please wear appropriate footwear and clothing that have not been in other caves or footwear and clothing that have been properly decontaminated.  more... 

Link to US Fish and Wildlife White-Nose Syndrome site

Join park rangers on an exciting two-hour adventure exploring this majestic underground cathedral! Discover glistening stalagmites and flowstone cascades, or catch a glimpse of a bat.

The moderately strenuous, 1.5 mile tour explores four levels of the cave via 183 steps. The tour includes a 1 mile hike along the historic Wilderness Road. For the safety of all, no children under the age of five are permitted. Appropriate hiking footwear is required. No sandals or open toed shoes are allowed.

All tours meet at the Daniel Boone parking area. Tickets must be purchased at least 15 minutes in advance.

Tour has limited capacity. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to one month in advance by calling the park visitor center at (606) 248-2817.

Ticket prices
Adults - $8.00
Seniors with Golden Age Passport - $4.00
Children five through twelve - $4.00 

Schedule
Jan 1 - March 31
Weekends only 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
April 1 - May 26
Weekdays - 10:00 am, Weekends - 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
May 27 - Sept 1
Daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
Sept 2 - Nov 24
Weekdays - 10:00 am, Weekends - 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
November 25 - December 31
Weekends only 10:00 am and 2:00 pm

Note: There will be no ranger guided tours of the Hensley Settlement on August 14 and October 1. Visitors will be permitted to drive up to the Hensley Settlement as part of the Hensley Homecoming program on October 1.

For questions please call the park visitor center at (606) 248-2817, extension 1075.

Hensley Settlement Tours

Join park rangers and step into the past at the historic Hensley Settlement on top of Brush Mountain. Stroll down fence-lined lanes, step into the blacksmith's shop, look into the springhouse and sit in the one-room schoolhouse. The Hensley Settlement was established in 1904 by Sherman Hensley and was occupied until 1951. The historic buildings remain and can be visited on this 3 1/2 to 4 hour tour. 

The tours depart from the visitor center and involve a shuttle ride to the settlement.  For the one mile walk through the settlement, comfortable walking shoes and clothing are a must. Bring a light snack and drink. 

Tour has limited capacity. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to one month in advance by calling the park visitor center at (606) 248-2817. 

Ticket Prices
Adults- $10.00
Seniors with a Senior Pass - $5.00
Children under the age of 12 - $5.00

Schedule
May 20 - October 31
Daily at 9:00 am and 1:30 pm