Horse Riding

Exploring Cumberland Gap National Historical Park on horseback is a memorable way to experience the landscapes that travelers, settlers, and longhunters once crossed.

Before you saddle up, it's important to understand where horses are allowed, where trailer access is available, and what rules help protect both riders and park resources. The information below will help you plan a safe, enjoyable ride while preserving the trails and landscapes for future visitors.

 

Photo by Tom Boardman

Horse Access Rules

Where Horses Are Allowed

Horses are permitted only on designated trails in the park, and stock use is also allowed at certain designated backcountry campsites. There are no commercial horseback riding facilities inside the park, so visitors bring their own horses and plan their own routes.

Where Horses Are Not Allowed

Some areas are protected or too sensitive for stock use. Park regulations specifically note:

• No horses within the boundaries of Hensley Settlement
• No horses within the Historic Gap

Always check the current conditions page for park alerts.

Trailer Parking and Access

Park regulations list approved trailer parking locations, including:

• Colson Trailhead near Wilderness Road Campground (paved parking area)
• Chadwell Gap trailhead (gravel parking area)

 

If You're Planning an Overnight Trip

Overnight trips in the backcountry require extra preparation.

Permits

Backcountry camping requires a free permit, picked up in person at the visitor center the day before or the day of your trip. Reservations for backcountry campsites can be made in person or by phone through the visitor center.

Campsites that accommodate horses

Horse capacities at backcountry campsites:

• Gibson Gap (up to 6 horses)
• Hensley Camp (up to 20 horses)
• Martins Fork (up to 20 horses)
• White Rocks (up to 8 horses)
• Chadwell Gap does not accommodate horses

 

Hitching posts for horses outside Hensley Settlement on the Ridge Trail.

NPS Photo

Colson Trail head located in the Wilderness Road Campground area.

NPS Photo

Hitching posts for horses outside Hensley Settlement on the Ridge Trail.

NPS Photos

 

Trail Etiquette and Safety

Good trail manners keep everyone safe and protect the trail.

• Lead horses over bridge crossings (dismount and lead).
• Alcohol is prohibited while riding.
• Share the trail thoughtfully slow down around other visitors and communicate clearly when passing.

 

Leave No Trace with Horses

Practicing Leave No Trace with horses helps protect park trails, campsites, and surrounding ecosystems for everyone who visits. Riders can reduce their impact by using proper tying methods, feeding practices, and campsite habits that prevent damage to trees and limit the spread of invasive plants. A little extra care ensures that both horses and riders can enjoy these landscapes while keeping them healthy for the future.

• Tie horses to hitch posts where provided. If none are available (or they’re full), use a highline. Don’t tie horses to trees, this damages bark and roots. Avoid hobbling; hobbled horses may paw.
• Do not tie directly to trees (prevents bark damage and root trampling).

• Feed with a nose bag or ground cloth to discourage wild animals. Dry feed before your trip with weed free grain or processed pellets to prevent the spread of noxious weeds. Any leftover feed should be packed out.