The drive from Stearns to Asheville is approximately 170 miles. You will head south on US-27 to I-75, then transition to I-40 East. This route typically takes 3 hours. You will travel through the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. It is a scenic and relatively easy drive.
Total Distance: 275 km driving distance; 220 km straight-line air distance.
I-40 through the mountains can be steep; use lower gears if necessary.
Spring and Fall for the most comfortable driving weather.