The Ultimate Road Trip: From Asheville to Gaston
Asheville and Gaston are two charming towns located in the beautiful states of North Carolina and South Carolina, respectively. If you're planning a road trip from Asheville to Gaston, you're in for a treat. The route is full of beautiful scenery and exciting stops. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different routes you can take, the distance of each route, and the time it will take to drive.
Route 1: The Fastest Route
If you're short on time, the fastest route is the way to go. The distance between Asheville and Gaston is approximately 148 miles, and it will take you around 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there. To take this route, start on I-26 E, and continue on it until you reach I-77 S towards Columbia. Take exit 2 towards US-21, turn right onto Monticello Rd, and then turn left onto Bluff Rd. This will take you straight into Gaston.
Route 2: The Scenic Route
If you have more time and want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, consider taking the scenic route. This route is approximately 170 miles, and it will take you around 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to Gaston. Start on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and continue on it until you reach Asheville. From there, take I-40 E and US-74 E towards Wilmington. Turn onto US-74 Business E, and continue on it until you reach US-15 S. Take exit 98 towards Porter Road, turn right onto Porter Road, and then turn left onto Ridge Road. This will lead you straight into Gaston.
Route 3: The Foodie Route
If you're a foodie and want to try some delicious local cuisine along the way, consider taking the foodie route. This route is approximately 200 miles, and it will take you around 4 hours and 30 minutes to get to Gaston. Start on I-40 E, and continue on it until you reach NC-18 S towards Morganton. Take exit 105 towards US-321 S, and then turn right onto US-321 S. Continue on it until you reach Gastonia. From there, take US-321 Business S, and continue on it until you reach US-321 S towards Columbia. Turn left onto SC-5 E, and continue on it until you reach Gaston. Along the way, make sure to stop by The Sweet Biscuit Inn in Asheville for some delicious biscuits and gravy, and drive through Lexington for some famous Carolina barbeque.
Route 4: The Historic Route
If you're a history buff and want to learn more about the region's rich past, the historic route is the way to go. This route is approximately 250 miles, and it will take you around 5 hours and 30 minutes to get to Gaston. Start on US-25 N, and continue on it until you reach I-26 W towards Asheville. Take exit 44 towards US-25 N, and then turn right onto US-25 N. Continue on it until you reach Hendersonville. From there, take US-64 E towards Rutherfordton. Turn onto US-74 E, and continue on it until you reach Gastonia. From there, take US-321 Business S, and continue on it until you reach US-321 S towards Columbia. Turn left onto SC-5 E, and continue on it until you reach Gaston. Along the way, make sure to stop by the Biltmore Estate in Asheville for a glimpse of the area's opulent past, and visit the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site in Flat Rock for a taste of local folklore.
No matter which route you choose, your road trip from Asheville to Gaston is sure to be a memorable one. With plenty of scenic routes, historic sites, and delicious food stops, this drive is perfect for anyone looking for a fun and adventurous way to explore the region. So pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.