Driving the 3 tight hairpin turns on the W Road of Chattanooga
Located in Hamilton County, in the US state of Tennessee, the infamous W Road is a short mountain road with 3 really tight hairpin turns. The turns are so steep that ‘you can see your taillights ahead of you’. The road is prohibited to semi-trailer trucks.
How long is the W Road?
The road is 5.14km (3.2 miles) long, running from East Brow Road to Mountain Creek Road. It is entirely paved.
Why is the W Road famous?
The road is famous due to its series of switchbacks that resemble the letter "W". After a series of mild curves at the beginning, the road gets interesting near the top, with turns nearly making a complete 180 degrees.
When was the W road built in Chattanooga?
Construction of the road started in 1892 and spanned 11 months. Initially a dirt-surfaced toll road, it was upgraded with gravel in 1911. In 1927, it was paved, widened, and enhanced with drains. A further widening occurred in 1940. By 1993, to mark its centennial, commemorative markers were installed. However, its design remains unchanged.
Is the W Road challenging?
The road is not easy, so careful driving is required. Veer too far, and you're in the wrong lane; cut it too short, and you risk scraping your car's bottom. It has very steep parts, hitting a 17.6% of maximum gradient in some parts. Many drivers find the W Road intimidating and often choose alternative routes.
Can I drive my vehicle on the W Road of Chattanooga?
Situated to the north of Chattanooga in the southeastern part of Tennessee, the W Road is not for every vehicle. The signs warn drivers of its restrictions: vehicles longer than 22 feet and trailers are prohibited. Despite these clear warnings, many truck drivers, relying heavily on GPS systems, often find themselves trapped on this road with no turn-around point in sight.