No direct train service from Horse Cave to Knoxville.

What is the best time to leave?

Leave early to avoid Knoxville afternoon traffic.

Yes, it is a standard interstate route.

Horse Cave

Knoxville

Driving

Horse Cave to Knoxville

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Horse Cave to Knoxville is approximately 210 miles. You will head east on the Cumberland Parkway to Somerset, then transition to I-75 South, which takes you into Knoxville. The drive typically takes 3.5 hours. This route offers a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Kentucky and the mountains of East Tennessee. Expect heavy traffic near Knoxville during peak hours.

Total Distance: 338 km driving distance; 265 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking 3.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to travel.

Compare Horse Cave to Knoxville Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

3 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

35-45 USD

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Cumberland Parkway to I-75 S.

Stop in Somerset, Kentucky, for a quick break.

Travel Tips

Traffic
I-75 can be busy near the Knoxville city limits.
Parking
Use public parking garages near Market Square for easy access.
Dining
Try local Southern cuisine at a restaurant in the Old City district.
Weather
Knoxville weather can be unpredictable; check the forecast before you leave.
Navigation
The I-75/I-40 interchange in Knoxville can be confusing; follow signs carefully.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Be cautious of winding roads and steep grades on I-75 in the mountains.
Speeding
Tennessee Highway Patrol is active on I-75; watch your speed.
Emergency
Keep a spare tire and jack in your vehicle for the long interstate drive.
Visibility
Use your headlights during rainstorms, which are common in the region.