50 After 50: Cumberland Gap National Park

With the threat of rain, we returned to the Visitor Center to watch two films: Daniel Boone and The Cumberland Gap.

Proceeding on to another recommended venture into the town of Cumberland Gap, we discovered the Gap Creek Coffeehouse.

Whistle Stop

We also met Ryan at Mitty's Metal Works and learned his story of moving to the area and learning from a local blacksmith. Now he teaches classes. We also found an antique store called Whistle Stop, an art co-op, and a bicycle museum...all within walking distance around this quaint little town.

Saturday morning the rain finally greeted us.. and our only plan that day was the Gap Cave Tour. We met Brittany and Josh at the Daniel Boone parking lot, and along with two other families, we hiked to the cave. Equipped with flashlights and headlamps, for about two hours Brittany walked with us thru the cave -- giving both history and science lessons. We saw pools of water, bats, Civil War soldier names etched in the cave walls, lots of steps, total darkness and many beautiful formations.

Heading back to the town of Cumberland Gap, we enjoyed a stroll to the Iron Furnace and listened to the creek run after much rain. A warm inviting front porch swing at the Gap Creek Coffeehouse was a great place to have coffee and hot chocolate. Our weekend ended with a second visit to Shades Cafe and Steakhouse. Yet another great local place to have a date in the middle of a weekend get away.