You have a trip planned through the beautiful North Carolina mountains, but now I-40 is closed due to a major rockslide.  No need to get bummed out!  Since you already are being forced to take a long detour, why not take the scenic route and enjoy the view?

• Click here for the "regular" I-40 alternate route (all interstate).

1. Heading west from Asheville on I-40, take Exit 27/US 74/Great Smoky Mountains Expressway.
2. If it's near lunch or dinner, consider stopping at the historic Jarrett House in Dillsboro (take US 441 South into Dillsboro - just a few minutes off Highway 74, and well worth it!).
3. From Dillsboro, continue west on Highway 74.
4. Turn right onto US 441 North (toward Cherokee).
5. Follow US 441 through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
6. In Gatlinburg, turn right onto US 321 and follow to I-40.
7. You'll rejoin I-40 near Newport, TN, just across the NC/TN state line. 

This scenic route is best considered a leisurely all-day (or half-day) drive.  Don't take it if you're in a big rush.  Do take it if you need a little time to soak in beautiful scenery on the roads less traveled.