The Cost of Driving From Asheville, NC to Atlanta, GA
Are you planning a road trip from Asheville to Atlanta? If so, you're probably wondering how much you should budget for gas and tolls. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it can be tough to plan for these costs. That's why we put together this guide to help you estimate the cost of your trip based on current gas prices.
Route One: the Fastest Route
If you're in a hurry to get to Atlanta, take I-26 W and I-85 S. This route is the fastest, clocking in at around 246 miles and taking roughly 3.5 hours to complete. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Asheville is currently around $2.80 per gallon. Given that your vehicle will get about 25 miles per gallon on the highway, you'll need approximately 10 gallons of gas to complete this trip. That means you'll be spending around $28 on gas.
Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.
Route Two: the Scenic Route
For a more leisurely road trip, consider taking US-129 S and US-23 S. This route is slightly longer than the first, at around 295 miles. However, it offers beautiful scenery and the chance to explore small towns. Keep in mind that this route takes around 5.5 hours to complete. As for gas, you'll probably need around 12 gallons, amounting to approximately $34.
Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.
Route Three: the Partially Tolled Route
If you don't mind paying tolls, consider taking I-40 W and I-85 S. This route is about the same length as the first, at roughly 244 miles. However, it does take slightly longer, at around 4 hours. Gas is likely to cost around $28. The tolls for this route are as follows: NC Quick Pass - $0.26, Piedmont Parkway/Triangle Parkway - $3.00, Greensboro Bypass - $2.14, and the Western Turnpike Extension - $4.00. That brings the total cost of tolls to $9.40.
Tolls: NC Quick Pass - $0.26, Piedmont Parkway/Triangle Parkway - $3.00, Greensboro Bypass - $2.14, and the Western Turnpike Extension - $4.00. Total cost of tolls: $9.40.
Route Four: the Scenic and Toll-Heavy Route
Finally, if you're looking for a scenic road trip that also takes you through some tolls, I-40 W and US-23 S is worth considering. This route is slightly longer than the second, at a distance of 310 miles. You'll need at least 12 gallons of gas, totaling approximately $34. As for tolls, you'll encounter the following fees: NC Quick Pass - $0.26, Piedmont Parkway/Triangle Parkway - $3.00, Greensboro Bypass - $2.14, Western Turnpike Extension - $4.00, Cherokee Foothills - $1.00, and Georgia Peach Pass - $0.50. That comes to a total of $10.90 in tolls.
Tolls: NC Quick Pass - $0.26, Piedmont Parkway/Triangle Parkway - $3.00, Greensboro Bypass - $2.14, Western Turnpike Extension - $4.00, Cherokee Foothills - $1.00, and Georgia Peach Pass - $0.50. Total cost of tolls: $10.90.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, how much you spend on a road trip from Asheville to Atlanta depends on the route you take, as well as the gas and toll prices at the time. Whether you're looking for a faster or scenic route, or don't mind paying tolls, there are options that can suit your needs. Regardless of which route you choose, however, make sure to check the weather and road conditions before you leave, and always drive safely!