Is there a train to Kansas City?

Amtrak serves Kansas City via the Missouri River Runner and Southwest Chief lines.

What is the best route?

I-40 to I-57 to I-70 is the most efficient highway path.

The route is largely toll-free, though some bridges near St. Louis may have fees.

How far is AVL from Highlands?

It is approximately 80 miles or a 1.5-hour drive.

Yes, the first three hours through the Blue Ridge Mountains are highly scenic.

Highlands

Kansas City

Flight Driving

Highlands to Kansas City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Highlands to Kansas City spans approximately 1,600 kilometers across the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River valley. Driving requires navigating US-64 to I-40, then transitioning to I-57 and I-70. Flights typically depart from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) with a connection in hubs like Charlotte or Atlanta. You will cross the scenic Ozark plateau before reaching the Missouri River. This route transitions from the high-elevation Blue Ridge Mountains to the expansive plains of the Midwest.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving distance; 1,350 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) takes 5.5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of two or more, costing roughly $300 total.

Compare Highlands to Kansas City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours 30 mins	16 hours
Avg Price	$400-$600	$250-$350 in fuel
Operator	American Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	AVL to MCI via CLT or ATL.	US-64 to I-40 W, I-57 N, and I-70 W.
Tip	Book your AVL departure early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.	Check for construction on I-40 near Knoxville before departing.

Travel Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending from Highlands to avoid overheating your brakes.
Airport Choice
Asheville (AVL) is the closest major airport to Highlands, located about 80 minutes away.
Midwest Traffic
Avoid I-70 through St. Louis during morning and evening rush hours.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in larger towns like Nashville or Paducah for better fuel prices.
Time Zones
You will cross from Eastern Time to Central Time during this trip.

Safety Tips

Weather Alerts
Monitor mountain fog conditions in North Carolina during early morning departures.
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure before the long drive to account for elevation changes.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic roadside kit including jumper cables and extra water.
Rest Stops
Plan for a rest stop every 4 hours to maintain alertness on long highway stretches.