If you’re in Knoxville, Tennessee, and looking for a great road trip adventure, a drive to Asheville, North Carolina, is a perfect choice. You can enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, passing through rolling hills, charming towns, and breathtaking views. This ultimate road trip guide to the Knoxville to Asheville drive will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your journey.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Knoxville to Asheville Drive
The distance from Knoxville to Asheville is approximately 110 miles. The fastest route is to take I-40 E and I-240 E, which takes about 2 hours. However, if you’re in no hurry, taking a more scenic route through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an option that you won’t want to miss.
How far is Knoxville to Asheville by plane?
If you’re looking to save time, you can fly from Knoxville to Asheville in just 40 minutes. Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines offer direct flights from Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). Flight prices vary, but you can expect to pay around $100 to $300 depending on the airline and the time of year.
Knoxville to Asheville Drive – Rent A Car In Knoxville
If you’re looking to rent a car for your Knoxville to Asheville road trip, there are several rental car companies in Knoxville to choose from:
- Alamo: starts at $47 per day
- Avis: starts at $49 per day
- Budget: starts at $47 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $48 per day
- Hertz: starts at $46 per day
- National: starts at $47 per day
Gas prices may vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $30 for a full tank of gas. This is based on an average gas price of $2.50 per gallon and a standard car that holds 12 gallons of gas.
You’re expected to pay around $120 for a one-way trip (including car rental and gas). If you’re accounting for a full family of 4 with luggage, it’s cheaper to rent a car and drive than it is to fly.
Knoxville to Asheville Drive – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some stops you can make along the way:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see stop on your Knoxville to Asheville road trip. The park is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, elk, and the world’s largest deciduous forest. You can hike one of the many trails, go fishing in a mountain stream, or take a scenic drive along the park’s winding roads.
Maggie Valley
Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Maggie Valley is a charming mountain town that’s home to several popular attractions. You can take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, go skiing at the Cataloochee Ski Area, or visit the Wheels Through Time Museum, which is home to one of the world’s premier collections of vintage motorcycles.
Asheville
Asheville is a vibrant and eclectic city that’s home to a wide range of restaurants, breweries, and cultural attractions. You can take a stroll through the historic Biltmore Village, visit the North Carolina Arboretum, or tour the Asheville Art Museum. And, of course, no visit to Asheville is complete without a stop at the iconic Biltmore Estate, a sprawling 8,000-acre estate that’s home to America’s largest home.
Knoxville to Asheville Road Trip Tips
Here are some tips to make the most of your Knoxville to Asheville road trip:
Plan Your Route
Before setting off, plan your route and stops to make sure you see everything you want to see. Consider taking the scenic route through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for breathtaking views and unique experiences.
Check Weather Conditions
The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so check the forecast before setting off and be prepared for changes in weather. Pack appropriate clothing, gear, and supplies, including snacks and water.
Be Prepared for Wildlife
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer. Be aware of your surroundings and follow park rules and guidelines to stay safe.
Bring a Camera
The scenery along the Knoxville to Asheville drive is breathtaking, so make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views and memories of your trip.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush through the drive – take your time and enjoy the journey. Stop at scenic overlooks, explore charming towns, and make memories along the way.
With these tips and stops in mind, your Knoxville to Asheville road trip is sure to be a memorable adventure.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Knoxville to Asheville drive is a fantastic road trip adventure that offers breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and plenty of stops along the way. Whether you choose to take the scenic route through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or stick to the faster route on the highway, you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey. With plenty of rental car options in Knoxville and affordable gas prices, driving to Asheville can be a great option for families or anyone looking for an adventure. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an incredible journey through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.