Does anyone drive from the Asheville, NC or Knoxville, TN area?

[1osfan]

Next month, we are heading to WDW and stopping to visit some family who live about 35 miles west of Asheville along I-40. Google Maps gives me two options to get from there to WDW. The first heads southwest along 23 to 441 and around Atlanta to take 75 down. The other has me take 40 through Asheville and then 26 to 95 and down.

According to Google, the route through Atlanta is 12 miles shorter but takes 15 minutes longer than the trip down I-95. We will be traveling overnight on a Thursday into Friday next month, but I am unfamiliar with either of these routes. Which would you take?

Thanks!

 

[JAA'smom]

We actually live in the Asheville area about 20 miles west and always do the I-26 to I-95 way. Going around Atlanta can be hit or miss with traffic. With summer traffic it is likely to take you a lot longer. 23 and 441 are smaller and curvier. We will be going down at the end of June and that is the only way we go. Have a fun and safe trip. If you have any questions ask away. I have that way down memorized.

 

[LadyBeBop]

I'm not familiar with the first route. It seems it may take you back into the Smokies. Might be pretty route; however, I would be concerned if it is only two lane, winding roads into the mountains.

I do know the second route. Interstate throughout your trip. I-26 is boring; however you'll be going 65 to 70 throughout.

 

[1osfan]

Thank you both very much! That was exactly what I was hoping to hear. I would much rather travel on an interstate and since we will be traveling overnight, I'd like to stay away from curvy, small roads.

 

[starsweeper]

Former Atlanta dweller here:

Avoid Atlanta at all costs! And if you ignore my advice, remember I warned you!

 

[catwalk82]

We live around Greenville, SC and travel frequently to Florida. Our family is in Gainesville. The route through Atlanta takes longer and going through Atlanta, depending on the time of day can be horrendous. We always opt for the I385/I26/I95 route. We also very rarely get caught in any sort of traffic jam on that route.