The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Asheville, NC to Gatlinburg, TN

Are you planning a road trip from Asheville, North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee? Great idea! This scenic drive is filled with breathtaking mountain views, charming towns, and lush forests. However, before hitting the road, it's important to consider the time it takes to travel between these two popular destinations. In this post, we'll provide you with useful information about the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

Taking I-40 and I-140 is the quickest way to get from Asheville to Gatlinburg. This scenic route takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains and offers stunning views along the way. The distance between Asheville and Gatlinburg is approximately 70 miles and it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive. During peak traffic times, such as summer weekends and holiday seasons, it can take up to 2 hours. However, if you're traveling during the off-season or mid-week, you may be able to shave off some time on this route.

The Slowest Route

If you're looking for a more leisurely drive with plenty of sightseeing opportunities, the slowest route between Asheville and Gatlinburg is your best bet. This scenic drive takes you through the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway, offering panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. Although this route takes longer, the views and destinations along the way are worth the extra time. The distance between Asheville and Gatlinburg on this route is approximately 100 miles and it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive.

The Midway Route

If you're looking for a half-way point between Asheville and Gatlinburg, consider stopping in the historic town of Waynesville. This charming town is only 30 miles from Asheville and offers plenty of antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. From Waynesville, you can take US-23 to reach Gatlinburg, a distance of approximately 65 miles. This route takes about 2 hours to drive, but can take longer during peak traffic times.

No matter which route you choose, plan accordingly and make sure to factor in extra time for bathroom breaks and sightseeing stops. If you're traveling during peak traffic times, plan to leave early in the morning or late at night to avoid heavy traffic. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to enjoy a safe and stress-free road trip from Asheville to Gatlinburg. Safe travels!