Monteagle, TN (Chattanooga, South Pittsburg, Huntsville: college, dangerous, deal)

[kingdom89]

I would like to know if there is a route from Nashville, TN bypassing Monteagle, TN downgrade of 4 to 6 miles (mountainous area) to ATLANTA, GA that I can take. The 4 to 6 mile stretch is too scary for me and I found some information that confirms it is a dangerous stretch because of what was posted regarding the area. I have driven it quite a few times, but I don't want to drive it anymore, but I need to get to Atlanta. Please help! Thank you!

[alleycat]

You could go to Birmingham, then take I-20 to Atlanta. It would add a good hour or hour-and-a-half to your trip however.

[gbone]

There are rural routes that by-pass Monteagle to the east. Just check the TN map. The problem you have is that the rural two lane roads are probably much more dangerous than the few miles you are speaking of on I-24. They will also add up to forty five minutes or so to your drive.

[MichaelBNA]

Kingdom, I understand the anxiety but I would honestly try to find a way to deal with it and continue using I-24. I know it will be hard, much easier to say than to do, but it's bery important that you overcome this fear by facing it head-on.

[soulful]

Originally Posted by MichaelBNA

by facing it head-on.

No pun intended, I'm sure

Kingdom89, seriously, best of luck to you.

[Pimpy]

I went to college on top of that mountain and really don't see what the big deal is, especially if it isn't snowy or icy. Just use common sense as well as your brakes frequently and you'll be fine.

[bravesfan83]

I have the same fear....go to Chattanooga at least once a month but can't stand the Monteagle part of the drive. I take I-65 to Huntsville, then I think it's Hwy 72 through Alabama back to I-24 at the South Pittsburg exit. It adds about 45 mins to an hour to my drive but the peace of mind is worth it to me!

[kingdom89]

Thanks so much for all your replies. I realize I have a fear to overcome and I am working on it (I believe it is rooted in a "fear of death"). I am now 62 years old. I am a female and I have been driving all over the U.S. But for the last 4 years I dread going through that path (since I turned 58--it also happened after my mother passed--there is probably a connect to this that I am not aware of)!

Thank you bravesfan83
Junior Member for your response.

For the gentleman that stated he doesn't understand what the big deal is: What age are you; are you use to mountainous drivingand are you a truck driver?
Thanks again for all the responses.

Kingdom89

[IngleDave]

The road could sure be worse. I love that road. Compared to the original interstate through there, it's a piece of cake; just use common sense, you'll get used to it.