Cumberland Gap National Historical Park provides a tranquil and natural setting for families to honor their loved ones by scattering cremated remains. To maintain the park’s peaceful environment and protect its natural and cultural resources, this process must be carried out with care and in accordance with park guidelines. These regulations help ensure a respectful experience for all visitors while preserving the beauty of the landscape.
Before scattering ashes, please review the permit letter carefully, print a copy, and bring it with you to the ceremony. This letter serves as official authorization and outlines the specific terms and conditions that must be followed. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to maintaining the integrity of the park and ensuring a respectful tribute to your loved one.
Scattering of Ashes Permit Letter
Terms & Conditions
• The person scattering the cremains must have a printed copy of the permit letter in their possession. This letter serves as the physical authorization needed to permit scattering of ashes.
• If more than 25 people will be in attendance, an additional special use permit is required. Please call 606-248-2817 for information and allow at least 45 days to process this additional permit.
• Ashes must not have detectable remains. Cremation must have been completed in accordance with state law.
• Ashes may not be scattered at the Pinnacle Overlook, White Rocks, or inside any cave located in the park including Skylight Cave, Gap Cave, and Sand Cave.
• The chosen site must be no less than 300 feet away from buildings, towers, caves, sinkholes, historic sites including historic structures and cemeteries, streams, wetlands, or other watercourses.
• The chosen site must be no less than 150 feet away from mowed or developed areas such as roads, overlooks, trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
• Ashes must be scattered, not piled in one location or deposited in any type of container. Cremains may not be buried, even without a container. All identifying tags and containers in which ashes are carried must be disposed of outside the park.
• No rocks, plants, or other natural resources may be moved, stacked, cut, marked, damaged, or disturbed in any way.
• No walls, bridges, buildings, signs, historic sites, or other cultural resources or facilities may be marked or damaged in any way.
• No markers or memorials of any kind are permitted. Placement or planting of real or artificial flowers, memorial trees, brass markers, wooden crosses, or other items is prohibited.
• No birds, butterflies, or other objects may be released.
