Atlanta, GA to Franklin, NC
165.7 miles: 3 hours, 18 minutes
Once you’ve conquered traffic in downtown Atlanta, it’s mostly billboards and views of the suburbs along I-85 and I-985 until you reach Gainesville, where the landscape gets noticeably hillier. You’ll begin to see mountains on the horizon near the turnoff for US-23 N/US-441 N. Stretch your legs in Dillard before crossing the North Carolina state line.
Franklin, NC to Asheville, NC
80.3 miles: 2 hours, 4 minutes
The route from small town Franklin winds through the Nantahala National Forest, crossing over creeks and under the Blue Ridge Parkway before making an eastward turn toward Asheville. Plan to spend a whole day exploring Asheville, where trendy restaurants, historic attractions and outdoor adventures await.
Asheville, NC to Atlanta, GA
211.9 miles: 3 hours, 55 minutes
Your return journey cuts through the mountainous northwest corner of South Carolina, marked by plenty of recreation opportunities and greenery. Look for signs for Jones Gap State Park, which provides access to waterfalls, hiking trails and fishing spots. The route skirts Greenville before turning back toward Atlanta on I-85.