JOMO
Florida
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Joined: 05/27/2008
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I'll be traveling us 441 between Franklin NC and Gatlinburg TN at the end of March and I live in Florida, so no experience with mountain driving, has anyone driven on that road up the mountain, I'm wondering whether or not I should stick to the interstate. A friend suggested us 441 for a nice scenic ride up to Franklin NC.
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narcodog
Georgia
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Joined: 04/02/2006
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It is a typical mountain rd, I have seen every type of R/V on it. That is the shortest way to get to G'burg
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JUrban
Delaware
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Joined: 06/28/2004
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Not sure what you're driving. Can you give some more info?
John
2008 Tiffin Allegro Bus 40' QSP
2006 Chevrolet Colorado Toad
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JFG
TN
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If you are inexperienced in mtn driving, I would take I-40. US 441 is a very busy, steep and curvy road. You can drive up it to Newfound Gap after you have parked your trailer.
Fred
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Handbasket
Asheville, NC
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Joined: 01/17/2003
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I agree with JFG. US 441 coming out of Franklin over Cowee Mtn. is a bad place for a beginner... it's 4-lane, steep, with off-camber diminishing-radius curves and lots of 'wavy' pavement, and fast-moving traffic. 441 in GSMNP is a two-lane that will test your cooling system and brakes. There may be snow either place in late March.
Take your RV to G'burg on the interstates, then take the toad or TV to Franklin. Break yourself in gently.
Jim, "Snap, crackle, pop... God, I hate getting old."
'06 Tiger CX 'C Minus' on a Silverado 2500HD 4x4, 8.1 & Allison ('Loafer's Glory'); '07 Forester 2.5 ( the 'HANDBSKT'); '95 Toyota SR5 V-6 4x4 pickup, ARB locker, Bilsteins, Warn hubs & M8000, etc;
'94 968, M030 swaybars ('DOPPLER')
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seabee128
Largo, FL
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I believe there are a couple of tunnels on 441 thru the GSMNP that are 11 1/2 ft. or so. Need to verify your rig is low enough to clear them.
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JFG
TN
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The tunnels in the park have all been improved to 13.5 ft. Park Service finally got the message.
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JOMO
Florida
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Sorry, can't believe I forgot to list my vehicle ( 29 ft class C). I'm thinking for the safety of the grandkids we'll take US 441 from Franklin NC to 23/74, then pick up I40 west to exit 440 on 73/321 into Gatlinburg. How's that look to people in the know. Thanks for advice, don't have a toad but I guess we can rent a car in Gatlinburg, I see on line they have a trolley from the CG to the attractions.
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blknomad
ferrum va
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Joined: 05/02/2008
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Don't confuse Gatlinburg with Pigeon Forge even though are only 4 mi apart. Head directly for wears {sp} valley road. There are several nice camp grounds and the trolley comes through about every 20min. You can connect to other trolleys that will take you to Dollywood or shopping malls or any where else you may want to go. Don't miss Cherokee, The grans will love it. You can dry camp in the casino parking lot. Try to make it to the outdoor drama Unto These Hills, I'm pretty sure you can catch a bus.
Happy camping
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HTT to be?
Southern Wisconsin
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The road over the mtn is not bad. It is beautiful and has many places to turn out and let others pass. You can go at your own pace. In March the road will not be crowded. You may have 70 degree weather or snow. If the forecast is good, I would take 441. Just take it easy and use your trans to slow you down. Your brakes will need that extra help from the trans. Mtn driving is not difficult, but can be intimidating if you have not done it before. The beauty of the drive will make the trip worth it. Stop at the pull outs and see how the Smokies look different at each stop. Check out the Appalachain Trail @ Newfound Gap. There are lots of places to see.
Where are you camping? If you don't need hookups, stay in the park. It is quiet and beautiful. We have camped there every spring break for the last 13 years. My kids count the days till we go as soon as the new year hits. PM me if I can answer any questions.
Have a great trip!
Dave
PS- Unto these hills does not open till the summer.
2007 Jayco 23B
2000 E150 Ford Club Wagon 5.4 w/ tow pkg
Equalizer hitch, Kelsy brake controller
1997 Coleman Sunridge- Served us well for 11 years!
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