A Family Hike to Stand in 3 States at Tri-State Peak
When most people think of standing in multiple states at once they automatically think of the 4 Corners of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. Although this is the only place to physically be in four states at once there is an option to stand in 3 states at once for those in the Eastern United States!! Tri-State Peak is a family friendly hike that is sure to please!
TRI-STATE PEAK
Tri-State Peak is located inside the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and it the geographical convergence of Tennessee, Virginia and Kentucky. There are a few ways to reach the summit but our trip started in the town of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. We parked at the Iron Furnace Trailhead and began our hike from there on the Tennessee Road Trail. This trail takes you past an old iron furnace and up to the Wilderness Trail. From there we continued hiking to the namesake, Cumberland Gap, where we joined the Tri-State Peak Trail (aka Daniel Boone’s Trail).
After taking a mini photo session of the amazing landscape around Cumberland Gap we continued our hike on toward the peak. A short distance later we were greeted by spectacular views and a covered area where the three states meet. This was the perfect area to have some family fun with the 3 for us running from each other into different states. Jacob decided he needed to take a quick nap on the marker while Kyleigh was content just taking a seat.
The center is marked by a USGS marker so there’s no question about where the line actually is. The hike in total was roughly 2.5 miles and would be classified as moderate. Take a bottle of water and your camera and enjoy the views. We’ll definitely be hiking it again as the leaves continue to change.
THE PERFECT ENDING
As we were finishing our hike we ran into a couple locals and began talking about the area. As usual in our conversations I inquired about local eateries and gem that we could hit for lunch. Without any hesitation they both said Gap Creek Coffee House and directed us to what would become a local favorite for us too!!
Just a block or so from the trailhead in the Town of Cumberland Gap sits the Gap Creek Coffee House. It occupies an old home with limited indoor seating and lots of outdoor tables. You can order at the counter or they’ll come get your order from the table. We ordered at the counter and in no time we were enjoying lunch on the porch looking out over history and the mountains.
After our meals we couldn’t resist some hand dipped ice cream and homemade cakes before heading back to camp. Be sure to stop in and support this locally owned business when you’re passing through the area. You won’t be disappointed and you’ll meet some of the most friendly people ever!!
Don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel and the video of this hike!! Take a quick moment to give it a THUMBS UP and SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an adventure. Until next time…….