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NEOK's avatar
NEOK
Explorer
Oct 01, 2015

Elevation Changes on I40 between NC and TN

Recovering from emergency eye surgery in Asheville and need to get back to Oklahoma. I need to be cautious about changes in elevation while recovering. Can anyone tell me what kind of elevation changes to expect if I take I40 from North Carolina into Tennessee?

Thanks
  • Thanks everyone, we made it through with no problems in spite of the heavy rain.
  • On I 40 from Ashville to TN you go through a section called the Gorge it is 4 lanes of real curvy road, all semis are to stay in the right lane only and 55 mph and cars don't like to slow down. There has been many wrecks on this section of interstate just look at the road and the center divider at each curve with all the gouges in the divider wall and the road from past wrecks. Thousands drive it every day just be careful.
  • Thanks for all of the replies and helpful information.
  • there are some tight curves but the ups and downs are manageable. Everything is well marked so pay attention to those yellow speed signs and you should be fine

    The hardest part is on the NC side near Ashville for me. theres a pretty steep grade that will give your TV a nice workout if you are pulling heavy
  • Around Waynesville NC you will be at about 3,000 ft.
    Knoxville, TN is about 900.
    Not sure if those are the highest and lowest elevations on your route, but that should give you an approximate range.
  • Here is the elevation change:

    Nifty tool

    You have to move the map to the area you area you are interested in and then click on the start and finish and it will draw an elevation map.
  • Not so bad. More curves than climbs. Been through there a few times over the years. They seem to have cut the I40 path around the elevations. FYI, news today was I 40 west was closed...accidents or perhaps rock slide? Check before you go. Safe travels.