Asheville and Gatlinburg are two beautiful mountain towns that are popular tourist destinations, located in North Carolina and Tennessee, respectively. If you’re planning a road trip from Asheville to Gatlinburg, you’re in for a treat. This scenic route will take you through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and rivers. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about driving from Asheville to Gatlinburg, including distance, drive hours, stops, and the best driving route.
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Asheville to Gatlinburg Drive
The distance between Asheville and Gatlinburg is approximately 82.2 miles (132.2 km). The fastest way to get from Asheville to Gatlinburg is to take I-40 W and US-321 S, which will take you there in around 1 hour and 43 minutes. The drive is relatively easy and straightforward, with a few mountainous areas, so be prepared for some winding roads.
However, if you’re looking for a more scenic route, consider taking the Blue Ridge Parkway. This drive will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. The Blue Ridge Parkway drive can take around 3 hours, but it’s definitely worth the extra time if you have it.
Asheville to Gatlinburg: How Far Is It?
Asheville and Gatlinburg are approximately 82.2 miles (132.2 km) apart, so driving between the two is a relatively short trip. However, keep in mind that the drive can take longer depending on the route you take and any stops you make along the way.
How Far Is Asheville to Gatlinburg by Plane?
The flight distance from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) to Gatlinburg Airport (GKT) is 63 miles (101.3 km), so the best option is to fly to a nearby airport. Flying from Asheville to Gatlinburg takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes.
What Is the Time Difference Between Asheville and Gatlinburg?
Asheville and Gatlinburg are both located in the Eastern Time Zone, so there is no time difference between the two cities.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Asheville to Gatlinburg
The cheapest way to get from Asheville to Gatlinburg is to drive. Renting a car in Asheville is relatively affordable, and gas prices are reasonable, so you can make the trip without breaking the bank. Alternatively, you can take a bus or shuttle, but these options may be more time-consuming and less convenient.
Asheville to Gatlinburg Drive – Rent A Car In Asheville
Here are some car rental companies to rent a car from in Asheville:
- Enterprise: starts at $47 per day
- Avis: starts at $44 per day
- Budget: starts at $44 per day
- Alamo: starts at $49 per day
- Hertz: starts at $46 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $40 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $2.60 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Asheville to Gatlinburg – Driving Stops Along The Way
There are many stops you can make along the way from Asheville to Gatlinburg, including:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
is a must-see attraction for anyone driving from Asheville to Gatlinburg. The park spans across Tennessee and North Carolina, covering over 800 square miles. It’s known for its diverse wildlife, stunning mountain views, and hiking trails. There are several entrances to the park, but the closest one to Asheville is the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
Chimney Rock State Park
Located about 25 miles southeast of Asheville, Chimney Rock State Park is a great place to stretch your legs and take in some stunning views. The park features hiking trails, a 404-foot waterfall, and the iconic Chimney Rock itself, which stands at 315 feet tall. There is an admission fee to enter the park.
Biltmore Estate
If you’re interested in history and architecture, the Biltmore Estate is a must-see attraction. Located in Asheville, this historic mansion was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s and features 250 rooms, including a massive banquet hall, a library, and a winter garden. There are also beautiful gardens and a winery on the estate.
Pigeon Forge
If you’re looking for some family-friendly entertainment, Pigeon Forge is a great stop along the way to Gatlinburg. Located about 30 minutes from Gatlinburg, this town is home to several attractions, including Dollywood theme park, the Titanic Museum, and several dinner theaters.
Best Driving Route from Asheville to Gatlinburg
As mentioned earlier, the fastest way to drive from Asheville to Gatlinburg is to take I-40 E and US-321 N. However, if you’re looking for a more scenic route, consider taking the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here are the directions for both routes:
Fastest Route (1 hour and 30 minutes)
- Head east on I-40 E
- Take exit 440 for US-321 N toward Gatlinburg
- Turn left onto US-321 N
- Continue onto Parkway in Gatlinburg
Scenic Route (3 hours)
- Take the Blue Ridge Parkway south from Asheville
- Follow the parkway until it intersects with US-74
- Take US-74 west toward Waynesville
- Merge onto I-40 west and follow until exit 27 for US-74
- Take US-74 to US-441, which will take you into Gatlinburg
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, driving from Asheville to Gatlinburg is a beautiful and scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you choose to take the fastest route or opt for the more leisurely Blue Ridge Parkway drive, you’re sure to enjoy the stunning landscapes and natural beauty that this region has to offer. With a range of transportation options available, from driving and flying to taking a bus or shuttle, you can easily find the best option to suit your needs and budget. So why not plan your road trip today and experience the natural wonder of the Appalachian Mountains firsthand?