U.S. Route 74

U.S. Route 74 (US 74) is a key east–west corridor running through the southern Appalachian region and into the coastal plains of North Carolina. Originally established in 1926, the route has grown into a crucial connector between the mountains and the southeastern parts of the state. It stretches from Chattanooga, Tennessee, at its western terminus, all the way to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, at its eastern end near the Atlantic Ocean. The route serves as a vital link for communities along the Great Smoky Mountains, Charlotte metropolitan area, and coastal destinations.

One of the most scenic stretches of US 74 is its overlap with the Appalachian Development Highway System’s Corridor A, which includes parts of the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway. This portion of the route offers sweeping mountain views, winding curves, and access to outdoor recreation areas such as the Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As it progresses east, the highway transitions into a more urban and suburban corridor, passing through Shelby, Gastonia, and the outer regions of Charlotte, where it serves as a significant commuter and commercial route.

Beyond Charlotte, US 74 becomes a mix of four-lane highway and freeway-grade roadway as it continues toward the coast. It passes through cities like Monroe, Rockingham, and Lumberton, and eventually reaches Wilmington before terminating at Wrightsville Beach. Various segments have been upgraded to Interstate standards, including portions designated as Future I-74, reflecting ongoing efforts to modernize and improve transportation efficiency in the region.