Posted 10-27-09.

The mountains of North Carolina are accessible from the west despite a rockslide on I-40 near the Tennessee/North Carolina border.

The Asheville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has provided the following information on the I-26 and Dixie Highway detour routes and a downloadable map:

Express Route via Scenic Interstate Byway

The NC Department of Transportation advises I-40 travelers from the west to take I-81 north to Johnson City, then I-26 east to Asheville. The I-26 route adds roughly 50 minutes to the travel time, and is one of the nation's only interstate Scenic Byways. I-26 takes motorists through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains offering scenic observation points, a welcome center and stunning views of the highest peaks in the East.

Detour Option via Dixie Highway

Travelers coming from the west on I-40 may also take exit 432-B for US-25/US-70 toward Newport. After Newport, TN, 25/70 becomes the Dixie Highway. Follow signs to stay on 25/70. Shortly after entering North Carolina, you will pass through the town of Hot Springs. Continue until you reach I-26. Take I-26 east to get to Asheville. This route adds roughly 30 minutes to the travel time and is a beautiful scenic mountain highway. Passenger vehicles only are permitted on this road-it is not a commercial travel route (i.e. motorcoach, RVs or dual-axel vehicles). Please consider possible weather and traffic congestion issues on this winding two-lane road.

Try our suggested itinery on this route, The Barn Quilts of Madison County.

Detour Option via the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

An alternative scenic route for travelers to Cherokee, Bryson City, Franklin, and other destinations in far western North Carolina is Highway 441 which runs from Sevierville, TN to Cherokee, NC through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Be advised that speed limits in the Park are generally 35 miles per hour or less. Travelers should also consider possible weather and traffic congestion issues on this winding mountain road.

Try our suggested itinery on this route, A Drive Thru the Park, A Trip into Another Culture.