A Great Story Starts Here
Daniel Boone, America’s pioneer hero, is the preeminent symbol for America’s Westward Movement. Settlers from European Ancestry poured into America’s heartland along Boone’s Trace, passing through the Cumberland Gap. This passageway through the Appalachian Mountains was the original “Gateway to the West.” The crossing of these eager, new Americans was the beginning of the westward movement. This movement occurred at the same time period as the American Revolution.
America’s Frontier History
As you drive the route, there are many places to drive and walk on the original Boone trace. It winds its way through woodlands, rivers and streams. Of course it is impossible to see it totally as it was, because time has erased much of the original trace. The pathway was developed into railroads, highways, towns and private property. But what was left is a living museum of frontier history.
Each county which includes the Boone Trace has developed recreational venues that connect to the trail, woodland and rivers. It can be traveled in full length or visiting segments as time allows.