The
New I-26 in Madison County
A Highway Through the Heavens of North Carolina.
I-26 curves towards Tennessee. Photo by Brian Reynolds
| The
New I-26 in Madison County
A Highway Through the Heavens of North Carolina. |
I-26 curves towards Tennessee. Photo by Brian Reynolds |
| What began as Appalachian Regional Corridor 'B' in the mid-1960's and ended as an extension of Interstate 26 into the mountains north of Asheville and into Tennessee, is a spectacular highway that combines the scenic majesty of the mountains and the utmost importance in safety and high-speed travel in this modern era. Built in various segments and not without its share of controversy, the new I-26 instantly became the crown jewel of the North Carolina Highway System when the last miles opened in August 2003. |
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(Left Image): Looking
south and east from the overlook. On a clear day, Mt. Mitchell and
other high peaks can be seen. (Photo by Chris Curley)
(Right Image): Looking in the same direction from a lower perch. (Photo by Chris Curley) |
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(Left Image): I-26
passes in front as seen from the Upper Overlook. (Photo by Brian
Reynolds)
(Right Image): A view at the elevation difference between the upper overlook and the parking area. (Photo by Brian Reynolds) |
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(Left Image): Looking north towards Sams Gap and Tennessee, both are still a few miles and a few more hundred feet higher in elevation away. (Photo by Chris Curley) |
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(Left Image): Overhead
for US 23 (Exit 3) on I-26 East. After the highways completion, most
of US 23 stayed or was placed back on its old alignment. Tennessee
is supposed to follow suit. (Photo by Chris Curley)
(Right Image): Lane instructions on I-26 West near the North Carolina/Tennessee State Line; Sams Gap. (Photo by Chris Curley) |
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Sources & Links:
Page Created: September 13, 2003
Last Updated: September 18, 2006
© 2003-06 William Lawson
I-26 Shield designed
by Jeff Kitsko
