Morning views from The Point are hard to beat, but what about the drive into Uptown Franklin or the run to the airport? If you are planning a move or already live here, you want clear, realistic expectations. In this guide, you will learn typical drive times, the best routes, parking tips, and how to plan smooth trips to Asheville Regional Airport. Let’s dive in.
Where The Point sits and your main routes
The Point is in the Cowee area of Macon County, roughly 6 miles north of Franklin’s town center, which keeps daily errands close to home. That short distance translates to about 10 to 20 minutes in normal conditions. You will primarily use NC‑28 and the NC‑28 and US‑64 corridors, which are scenic and include winding two‑lane sections. Expect slower speeds in curves and plan a little extra time for mountain driving.
- Learn more about Cowee’s location relative to Franklin on the Cowee–West’s Mill Historic District page: Cowee is about 6 miles north of Franklin.
- For road character and route context, see North Carolina Highway 28.
Getting into Uptown Franklin
A typical commute from The Point into Uptown Franklin runs about 10 to 20 minutes depending on your exact starting point and traffic. Uptown’s compact, walkable core makes it easy to park once and handle errands, dining, and appointments on foot. Parking is usually straightforward on weekdays. During festivals and busy weekends, allow an extra 5 to 15 minutes to find a spot and consider the municipal lots near Main Street.
- For event weeks and weekend planning, check local calendars like Franklin’s farmers markets and events roundup.
- For background on downtown’s walkable hub, see Franklin, North Carolina.
Public transit is limited in Macon County, so most commuting is by private car. Rideshare availability can vary, especially during off‑peak times.
Airport runs from The Point
The closest and most practical commercial airport is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). From Franklin, the drive is roughly 75 miles and usually takes about 1.25 to 1.5 hours in normal traffic. Add additional time for parking, shuttles, and security, especially on holiday mornings or early departures.
- Distance and time reference: Franklin to AVL is about 75 miles by road.
Ground transportation and parking at AVL
AVL has adjusted ride‑app and taxi pickup areas during terminal improvements. Pickups are designated, and some shuttles use the shuttle lot areas. Always check the airport’s latest ground transportation updates before you go and build in a few extra minutes for wayfinding. Parking options include short‑term, long‑term, and a garage, and spots can fill during peak seasons, so reservations are helpful when available.
- See AVL’s current guidance on pickup and ground transportation locations.
When to choose GSP or ATL
If schedules or fares are limited at AVL, consider Greenville‑Spartanburg (GSP) or Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta (ATL). GSP is about 114 driving miles from Franklin, and ATL is about 139 miles. Weigh the longer drive against route and price options.
- For distance context, review Franklin to GSP driving miles.
A realistic AVL timetable
Use this framework for a smooth door‑to‑gate plan.
- Domestic flight at 10:00 a.m.
- 6:45 to 7:15 a.m.: Leave The Point. This allows about 1.25 to 1.5 hours of drive time to AVL.
- 8:15 to 8:45 a.m.: Park or reach the shuttle pickup. Add 30 to 60 minutes for parking and transfer.
- 8:30 to 9:00 a.m.: Be at the terminal with 60 to 90 minutes before departure to handle check‑in and TSA.
- Always confirm day‑of updates for parking and pickup locations on the AVL site, and allow more time during holidays.
Mountain‑season driving tips
Mountain roads are beautiful, but curves, narrow shoulders, and limited sight lines require patience. Tourist seasons and slow trucks can add a few minutes. Before longer trips or during storms, check official updates and adjust your plan.
- For closures, lane restrictions, and 511 resources, use the NCDOT severe weather and travel guidance on ncdot.gov.
Safety basics to keep in your routine:
- Slow down and increase following distance, especially on wet or icy mornings.
- Expect bridges and higher passes to ice first in winter.
- Keep an emergency kit with water, blankets, a phone charger, and a flashlight.
- Ensure your tires and wipers are in good shape.
Connectivity and rideshare notes:
- Cell coverage can vary by carrier and street in Macon County. If signal reliability matters for work or navigation, test your service at your address, enable Wi‑Fi calling, and keep offline maps or printed directions as backup. Coverage maps show the variability across the county.
- Explore local signal patterns here: Macon County cell coverage overview.
Final thoughts
Living at The Point gives you quick access to Uptown Franklin and a workable plan for flights via AVL. With a little buffer for mountain roads, parking, and airport procedures, your daily errands and travel days can be simple and stress‑light. If you are planning a move and want local guidance paired with best‑in‑class marketing and flexible programs, we are here to help.
Ready to map your next move with a local plan that fits your lifestyle? Connect with SERHANT. North Carolina for personalized advice and a seamless experience.
FAQs
How long is the drive from The Point to Uptown Franklin?
- In normal conditions, plan for about 10 to 20 minutes, since Cowee sits roughly 5 to 8 miles north of Franklin’s center. Leave extra time during events or peak weekends.
What is the best route from The Point into town?
- Most residents use NC‑28 and local state routes into Franklin. These scenic two‑lane roads can be winding, so allow a few extra minutes for curves and slower vehicles.
How long should I allow to reach Asheville Regional Airport from The Point?
- Plan on about 1.25 to 1.5 hours of drive time from Franklin to AVL, plus 30 to 60 minutes for parking and shuttles, and 60 to 90 minutes before departure for check‑in and TSA.
Are there bus or train options between Franklin and Asheville for commuting?
- There is no daily fixed‑route public transit connecting The Point or Franklin to Asheville for routine commuting, so most travelers drive or arrange a shuttle or taxi.
When would GSP or ATL make more sense than AVL?
- Consider GSP at about 114 miles or ATL at about 139 miles when AVL’s schedules or fares do not fit your plans. Weigh drive time against price and nonstop options.
Is rideshare and cell service reliable around Cowee and The Point?
- Availability can be uneven in rural pockets. Prebook rides if you need a firm pickup time, test your carrier’s signal, and enable Wi‑Fi calling with offline maps as backup.
Where should I park in Uptown Franklin during busy events?
- Use municipal lots near Main Street, arrive a little early, and allow an extra 5 to 15 minutes to find a space. Check local event calendars ahead of time to plan your arrival window.
