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.
The driving experience on the W Road
Spanning 5.14km (3.2 miles) from East Brow Road to Mountain Creek Road, the road is entirely paved. The defining feature of this road is its series of switchbacks that resemble the letter "W". After a series of mild curves at the beginning, the road takes on a challenging profile near the top, with turns nearly making a complete 180 degrees.
When was the W road built in Chattanooga?
Curiosity often arises regarding the W Road's history. Its construction commenced in 1892 and spanned 11 months. Initially a dirt-surfaced toll road, it was upgraded with gravel in 1911. Over the years, the road witnessed various improvements. 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 fundamental design remains unchanged. The road's challenging nature combined with modern GPS systems has led to numerous trucking mishaps, emphasizing the need for caution and respect for its historical design.
Is the W Road challenging?
These turns demand cautious navigation. Veer too far, and you're in the wrong lane; cut it too short, and you risk scraping your car's bottom. Given its steep gradients, reaching up to 17.6% in some parts, many drivers find the W Road intimidating and often choose alternative routes.
Restrictions on the W Road of Chattanooga
Situated to the north of Chattanooga in southeastern Tennessee, the W Road is not for every vehicle. Clear signage warns 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.