The Summer Solstice, occurring on June 21, 2026, marks the longest day of the year and the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Cumberland Gap region, longer daylight hours provide more time for hiking, paddling, and exploring the area’s forests, rivers, and lakes. For the Cumberland Gap Trail Alliance, the solstice is a celebration of outdoor adventure, offering opportunities for community events, trail activities, and connecting people to the region’s natural beauty during peak summer season.