Cruise six scenic miles along U.S. Route 276 from Maggie Valley to Interstate 40 in North Carolina. Enjoy forested slopes, rustic homesteads, and a taste of classic mountain countryside before merging onto I-40 westbound.
U.S. Route 276
Explore U.S. Route 276, a scenic highway stretching from Mauldin, SC to Cove Creek, NC. Discover key attractions, mountain views, and historic towns along this route through the Carolinas.
U.S. Route 276 (US 276) is a scenic spur of U.S. Route 76, running through the western Carolinas and offering a mix of mountain vistas, historic towns, and access to major natural attractions. The highway begins in Mauldin, South Carolina, and extends northward to Cove Creek, North Carolina, near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along its approximately 106-mile route, US 276 traverses vibrant urban centers like Greenville, winds through Pisgah National Forest, and connects to popular recreation areas like Caesars Head State Park and Sliding Rock.
In South Carolina, US 276 serves as a vital connector between suburban communities and the Greenville metropolitan area. It passes through Traveler’s Rest, a gateway to the mountains, and continues through the South Carolina Upstate into the dramatic switchbacks of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Once in North Carolina, the highway descends into Brevard and continues through the lush Pisgah Forest, providing access to the Cradle of Forestry, Looking Glass Falls, and numerous hiking trails.
US 276 is prized not only for its utility as a regional route but also for its role as a popular byway for travelers seeking scenic drives. Its portion through the mountains—especially between Brevard and Waynesville—is designated as part of the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Whether you’re commuting through the Carolinas or exploring the Great Smoky Mountains region, US 276 blends everyday connectivity with exceptional natural beauty.
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U.S. Route 276: Waynesville to Lake Junaluska – North Carolina
Experience a short but scenic drive along U.S. Route 276 from Waynesville to Lake Junaluska, North Carolina. This quick connector route offers mountain town charm, easy access to lakeside trails, and a perfect taste of western North Carolina’s relaxing vibe.