If picking it up near I26 (actually use Hwy 191), heading south you are almost immediately in the Pisgah National Forest. About 25 miles south is Devil's Courthouse, what I think is one of the most breath taking places to take in the view. Mt Pisgah Inn, about 5-10 miles south of 191 which has nice meals with great views while you dine.
If picking it up near I40, then heading north drops you into the Asheville watershed with Craggy Gardens about 20 miles north. Mt Mitchell is about 10 miles further north. There is also a resturaunt at Mt Mitchell with great views while you eat. Food here depends on the cheif this year. Two years ago it was fantastic, last year only okay.
In between I-26 and I-40, to many house and not enough views, but it is only about 10 miles so not terrible.
In both directions, you have plenty of over looks to look at, each of which is special and wonderful in their own rights. So it would depend on where you are starting from and how much time.
Now one thing that may make you go south, is if it is hot and you want to jump in a mountain stream. For that, head south to the Graveyard Fields. From the parking area, it is a short steep (right side of parking lot) or long gradual (left side, 3 miles) to the stream and waterfall at the bottom of which is wonderful swimming hole. This parking area is easy to spot, it's the one with 50 cars parked any where they can and even down the side of the road on the weekends, and full parking lot on the weekdays.
2015 Ram 3500 4x4 Crew Cab SRW 6.4 Hemi LB 3.73 (12.4 hand calc avg mpg after 92,000 miles with camper)
2004 Lance 815 (prev: 2004 FW 35'; 1994 TT 30'; Tents)
