Road Hazards

There are four potential road hazards we would like our customers to know about. If there are any special travel problems this is where we'll tell you about them.

There is no guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional service.

The Gorge. Truckers call the stretch of Interstate 40 from the North Carolina/Tennessee state line to Exit 20 the Gorge because it is a heavily winding road with steep cliffs everywhere. The gorge isn't a problem normally, but should be avoided during winter storms. And always keep your eyes open for rock slides.

Mountainous Terrain. Appalachian Amusement Center is located just a couple of miles from the southeast corner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This area is quite mountainous. Severe winter weather may make the roads impassible for a day or two every year. You should probably avoid traveling here during severe winter weather. The roads in the park, and on the Blue Ridge Parkway, often are 6000 feet or more above sea level. Avoid these roads when the weather is questionable. The road between Cherokee and Maggie Valley is also very high and should be avoided when snow is on the ground. 

Speed Traps. The stretch of Interstate 40 from mile marker 20 to 26 is a well known speed trap. There are often more State Troopers in this stretch of road than the entire journey from Knoxville to Asheville put together.

Road Blocks. Often, the local police set up a road block at Exit 20 to check for valid driver's licenses.

2-28-2005 There are currently no specific problems we know about with the roads leading to AAC. The Following are old reports to give you an idea of what can happen, and what has happened in the past. Please Drive Carefully !