A Road Trip from Boonville, Indiana to Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Are you craving for an adventure on the open road? Look no further than a road trip from Boonville, Indiana to Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Stretching across a distance of approximately 350 miles, the journey is ripe with stunning scenery, delicious food, and intriguing pit stops along the way. Let's break down your route and cover the best options to make your way through Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
The Eastern: I-64 to I-75
One of the most direct routes from Boonville to Gatlinburg is heading southeast on I-64, then connecting with I-75 in Lexington, Kentucky. From there, the route will take you south through the rural towns of Corbin, London, and Jellico before reaching Knoxville and finally Gatlinburg. This drive takes about 6 hours, though heavy traffic can add extra time during peak travel seasons.
Along the way, be sure to stop at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington and admire the beauty of the Bluegrass Region. When in Corbin, stop at the original KFC restaurant before heading through the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Once in Knoxville, relax with a drink at the local market and brewery on Market Square.
The Scenic: US 41 to US 27
If you are looking for a more scenic route, consider taking a drive down US 41 to US 27 into Tennessee. This drive takes about 8 hours and passes through the rolling hills of Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky. Along the way, you can visit the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky, and sample the famous bourbon in Bardstown, Kentucky. As you get into Tennessee, stop at the Ozone Falls State Natural Area and take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Emory River.
The Mountainous: I-65 to I-40
A more southern route from Boonville to Gatlinburg includes taking I-65 south to Nashville, then heading east on I-40 towards Knoxville. This drive takes approximately 7 hours and features astounding views of the Appalachian Mountains. While in Nashville, stop in and visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium. Once in Knoxville, take some time to tour the University of Tennessee campus and the Neyland Stadium.
The Old-Fashioned: State Route 56
For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, consider taking State Route 56 from Boonville to Tennessee. This route passes through the Hoosier National Forest and down into Kentucky through Mammoth Cave National Park. After passing through Glasgow, Kentucky, the route connects with the Cumberland Parkway and eventually US 27 into Tennessee. This route takes about 8 hours and is best for those who are looking for a more laid-back, quaint road trip experience.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Overall, there are many different route options for those traveling from Boonville, Indiana to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Depending on your preferences and time constraints, you can choose the best route for your needs. Remember to take breaks often and enjoy all that the route has to offer with places like Cracker Barrel or Waffle House.
No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of attractions and restaurants to make your journey as memorable as your destination. So, buckle up, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Boonville, Indiana to Gatlinburg, Tennessee!