Ashville NC to Houston Tx /Avoiding Atlanta

According to Bing Maps, to go through Chattanooga and Birmingham it takes 30 minutes and 40 miles more (15 hours compared to 14.5 hours). So, it is your choice. There is a long stretch around Fort Payne, AL where they have been working on the Interstate since the beginning of time that is really frustrating because the make you drive 45-55 mph for no good reason / that is when you can tell what the speed limit is since it seems to change several times. I have never really found Atlanta to be so bad if you avoid any rush times. They tend to speed a lot which to me, means you should be able to maintain the posted speed limit. I also understand the police are cracking down on speeders! Best wishes for a safe trip home!!