Explore Interstate 40, a major east–west highway stretching from California to North Carolina. Discover its route, key cities, scenic highlights, and historical significance.
Interstate 40 (I-40) is one of the nation’s longest and most significant east–west routes, stretching over 2,500 miles from Barstow, California, to Wilmington, North Carolina. Traversing eight states, I-40 serves as a major commercial artery and scenic cross-country corridor, paralleling historic U.S. Route 66 for much of its western half. The highway plays a critical role in both freight movement and tourism, connecting major cities including Oklahoma City, Little Rock, Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville.
The western segment of I-40 offers travelers expansive desert landscapes and cultural landmarks, from the Mojave Desert to the Petrified Forest and Albuquerque’s high desert basin. As it moves eastward, the terrain shifts dramatically—from the high plains of Texas and rolling hills of Arkansas to the lush river valleys of Tennessee. I-40 crosses several major interstates, including I-5, I-25, I-35, I-55, and I-75, making it a vital junction point for north–south connections as well.
Notable challenges along I-40 include seasonal weather hazards, especially winter storms in the high elevations of Arizona and severe storms in the Midwest and Southeast. Despite these conditions, I-40 remains a preferred route for coast-to-coast travel due to its relatively direct alignment, robust infrastructure, and diverse roadside attractions. Whether you’re a long-haul trucker, road-tripper, or history buff following the path of Route 66, Interstate 40 offers a compelling and essential journey across the American landscape.
Experience the 69-mile drive along Interstate 40 from Memphis to Jackson, Tennessee. Follow the route from the edge of the Memphis metro through rural farmland, the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, and into Jackson on this smooth, scenic stretch of I-40.
Drive Interstate 40 from Nashville to Knoxville and experience 187 miles of rolling hills, Cumberland Plateau vistas, and classic Tennessee scenery. Follow this detailed route narrative for landmarks, terrain changes, and what to expect along the way.
Take a scenic 153-mile drive along Interstate 40 from Little Rock to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Explore river crossings, mountain views, and vibrant towns like Conway, Russellville, and Ozark on this diverse stretch of highway.
Travel across Tennessee on Interstate 40 from Kodak to Lebanon, passing the Great Smoky foothills, Knoxville, the Cumberland Plateau, and Middle Tennessee’s farmlands. Experience a classic 155-mile cross-state drive.
Drive America’s Highways along Interstate 40 from the Oklahoma border to North Little Rock, Arkansas. Explore rolling foothills, river valleys, and growing urban centers on this vital cross-state route.
Cruise east on Interstate 40 from Tijeras to Edgewood, New Mexico, for 12 miles of high-desert scenery, roadside history, and mountain views just outside of Albuquerque. Explore Zuzax, Sedillo Hill, and the growing town of Edgewood along the way.
Cruise 131 miles along Interstate 40 from Little Rock to Memphis — pass through wooded countryside, open Delta farmlands, small towns like Lonoke and Brinkley, and cross the majestic Mississippi River into Tennessee.
Cruise 28 miles west along Interstate 40 from U.S. Route 276 to Cosby, Tennessee. Experience breathtaking mountain views, the dramatic Pigeon River Gorge, historic tunnels, whitewater adventures in Hartford, and peaceful access to the Smokies at Cosby.
Enjoy a breathtaking 44-mile drive along Interstate 40 from Newport, TN to Lake Junaluska, NC. Experience the Pigeon River Gorge, Great Smoky Mountains scenery, river rafting spots, scenic overlooks, and a charming lakeside finish — perfect for a memorable Appalachian…
Experience 20 miles of Interstate 40 through Memphis, Tennessee, including a drive across the Mississippi River, a bypass around downtown, and highlights of urban sights and local attractions. Perfect for travelers looking to explore Memphis from the highway and beyond.
Cruise across the high desert of central New Mexico on Interstate 40 from Edgewood to Clines Corners. This 31-mile stretch includes Moriarty, a historic Route 66 stop, and long desert vistas before arriving at the legendary Clines Corners travel center.
Cruise 12 miles east across Albuquerque on Interstate 40, from Rio Grande Blvd to Tramway Blvd. Experience the Big I interchange, cityscapes, Route 66 history, and views of the Sandia Mountains.