Road Trip: The Cost of Driving From Asheville, North Carolina to Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Are you planning on taking a road trip from Asheville to Chapel Hill? If so, you're in luck! This drive will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of North Carolina. But before you hit the road, let's take a closer look at the routes, distance, time, and cost of each.

Route 1: Taking I-40 and I-85 N

Distance: 252 miles. Time: 4 hours.

The first route will take you through the mountains and some of North Carolina's scenic countryside. Starting in Asheville, get onto I-40 East. You'll go through Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and then merge onto I-85 North until you reach Chapel Hill. Along the way, you will encounter tolls of about $4. Time to fill up the gas tank! Gas prices in North Carolina vary but average about $2.65/gallon. At this price, you'll spend about $45 on gas for this trip.

Route 2: Taking US-70 and US-421 S

Distance: 226 miles. Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes.

This alternative route is a little shorter but takes about the same amount of time. Instead of getting on the interstate, you'll take US-70 East, connecting to US-421 South. This route is also a little more scenic, taking you from the mountains to the Piedmont. There are no tolls on this route, but gas prices are relatively the same as our previous route. You should expect to spend $40 for gas.

Route 3: Taking the Scenic Route on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Distance: 325 miles. Time: 8 hours

Now, if you're someone who loves the scenic route and doesn't mind taking a little extra time, this route is for you. It's the longest one and will take you through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Starting in Asheville, you'll get onto the Blue Ridge Parkway and drive the entire length until it ends at US-421 South. Then, you'll continue on US-421 South until you reach Chapel Hill. There are no tolls on this route, but gas prices could be a little higher than average since gas stations may not be as readily available on the Parkway. You should expect to spend around $75 for gas.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the cost of driving from Asheville, North Carolina to Chapel Hill, North Carolina ranges from about $40 to $75 depending on the route you take, gas prices, and tolls. If you're in no hurry, take the scenic route. But, if you want to get there as soon as possible, take I-40 and I-85 N. Whichever route you take, make sure to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that North Carolina has to offer. Safe travels!