What States Does I-40 Go Through?
Interstate 40, also known as I-40, is a major east-west highway that stretches across the United States. It covers a vast distance and passes through several states, connecting various cities and towns. In this article, we will explore the states that I-40 traverses and provide some frequently asked questions about this iconic highway.
Stretching from the western coast of California to the eastern coast of North Carolina, I-40 spans a total length of approximately 2,555 miles. It is one of the longest interstate highways in the United States and serves as a crucial transportation route for both commercial and personal travel.
Here are the states that I-40 goes through:
1. California: I-40 starts at its westernmost point in Barstow, California, a city located in the Mojave Desert. It then travels eastward, passing through Needles, before crossing the state line into Arizona.
2. Arizona: After entering Arizona, I-40 continues its eastward journey, passing through cities such as Kingman and Flagstaff. It covers a distance of approximately 359 miles in the state before entering New Mexico.
3. New Mexico: The highway enters New Mexico near Gallup, continuing through Albuquerque, the state’s largest city. I-40 covers a distance of approximately 373 miles in New Mexico before crossing into Texas.
4. Texas: I-40 has a relatively short stretch in Texas, covering approximately 177 miles. It passes through Amarillo, a major city in the Texas Panhandle, before crossing into Oklahoma.
5. Oklahoma: Once in Oklahoma, I-40 covers a distance of approximately 331 miles. It passes through cities such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa before crossing into Arkansas.
6. Arkansas: I-40 spans approximately 284 miles in Arkansas. It passes through Little Rock, the state capital, and several other cities before entering Tennessee.
7. Tennessee: After crossing the Mississippi River, I-40 enters Tennessee, covering approximately 455 miles in the state. It passes through Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville, among other cities, before crossing into North Carolina.
8. North Carolina: I-40 continues its journey through North Carolina, covering approximately 423 miles before reaching its eastern terminus in Wilmington. It passes through cities such as Raleigh and Greensboro, providing connectivity across the state.
FAQs about I-40:
Q: Is I-40 a toll road?
A: No, I-40 is not a toll road for the majority of its length. However, there are some sections, such as the Cherokee Turnpike in Oklahoma, where tolls are collected.
Q: How long does it take to drive the entire length of I-40?
A: The driving time can vary depending on various factors such as traffic, speed limits, and individual driving habits. On average, it takes around 36 hours to drive the entire length of I-40 without stopping.
Q: Are there any notable attractions or landmarks along I-40?
A: Yes, there are several attractions and landmarks along I-40. Some notable ones include the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, and the Outer Banks in North Carolina.
Q: Are there any major cities that I-40 bypasses?
A: Yes, I-40 bypasses several major cities. Some examples include Los Angeles in California, Dallas in Texas, and Oklahoma City in Oklahoma. However, there are often alternative routes or connecting highways that provide access to these cities.
In conclusion, Interstate 40 traverses eight states, namely California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. It covers a vast distance, providing connectivity between various cities and regions. Whether you are embarking on a cross-country road trip or simply commuting within a state, I-40 is a significant highway that plays a crucial role in the American transportation network.