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.
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.
Take a short ride along the first mile of Interstate 40 eastbound in Barstow, California—where this legendary coast-to-coast route begins its journey through the Mojave Desert.
Drive 141 miles west across the Mojave Desert on Interstate 40 from Needles to Barstow, California. This quiet but stunning stretch features desert vistas, Route 66 remnants, and a brush with the Mojave National Preserve.
Cross the Colorado River into California as we drive 10 miles west on I-40 from Arizona to Exit 144 in Needles. Explore desert landscapes, quirky inspection stops, and a link to Historic Route 66 on this short but scenic southwestern stretch.
Take a scenic 44-mile drive across western Arizona as we follow Interstate 40 from Kingman to the California state line, passing Yucca, Lake Havasu access, and the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge before crossing the Colorado River into Needles.
Take a high-country drive along Interstate 40 from Williams to Ash Fork, Arizona. This 16-mile route passes Bill Williams Mountain, skirts the Coconino National Forest, and offers a gateway to Historic Route 66 at Crookton Road.
Cruise 26 miles along Interstate 40 from Flagstaff to Williams, Arizona, through pine forests, mountain grades, and roadside Americana. This scenic drive highlights Bellemont, Parks, and the historic charm of Williams—gateway to the Grand Canyon and Route 66 history.
Drive 14 scenic miles west on Interstate 40 through Flagstaff, Arizona—where the road curves past Walnut Canyon, connects with I-17, and brushes against the historic path of Route 66 in this pine-covered high-country city.
Cruise 23 miles west on Interstate 40 through Albuquerque, New Mexico—from the forested Sandia foothills through downtown and across the Rio Grande to the edge of the West Mesa. A high-desert drive blending mountain scenery, historic routes, and city culture.