VIRGINIA - A state with a vast and varied landscape stretching from the Atlantic coast to the Appalachian Mountains, is crisscrossed by thousands of miles of highways and scenic byways. While major interstates like I-95 and I-81 carry immense traffic, the title of the longest single highway in the Commonwealth of Virginia belongs to a historic and vital artery that defines its southern tier: U.S. Route 58.
A Journey Across the Commonwealth:
U.S. Route 58 is a massive east-west highway that traverses the entire width of Virginia.
Length: The highway runs for approximately 508 miles within Virginia's borders, making it the longest numbered route in the state.
Route: It begins in the west at the Cumberland Gap, where Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee meet. From there, it winds its way east through the rugged Appalachian Mountains, across the rolling hills of the Piedmont, and through the coastal plains, finally ending at the bustling oceanfront of Virginia Beach.
Key Regions: Along its extensive path, Route 58 passes through or near significant regions and cities, including the Heart of Appalachia, Martinsville, Danville, South Hill, Emporia, Suffolk, and the Hampton Roads metropolitan area.
More Than Just a Road: An Economic and Scenic Corridor
U.S. Route 58 is far more than just pavement; it's a lifeline for commerce, tourism, and community in Southern Virginia.
"Virginia's Main Street": For much of the 20th century, before the dominance of the interstate system, Route 58 served as a primary east-west corridor for the southern part of the state, earning it a reputation as a kind of "Main Street" for the region.
Economic Artery: It remains a crucial route for agriculture, manufacturing, and trucking, connecting rural communities to larger economic hubs.
Scenic Byway: The western sections of Route 58, particularly through the Jefferson National Forest and the Blue Ridge Highlands, offer breathtaking scenery, with winding roads, stunning mountain vistas, and charming small towns. It is a popular route for motorcycle touring and leisurely road trips.
Other Notable Long Highways in Virginia:
While U.S. Route 58 is the longest, other highways also cover significant distances within the state:
Interstate 81 (I-81): The longest interstate in Virginia, running for approximately 325 miles through the Shenandoah Valley.
U.S. Route 11: Often paralleling I-81, this historic route also travels the length of the Shenandoah Valley.
U.S. Route 360: Another major east-west route, connecting Danville to Reedville on the Chesapeake Bay.
With its impressive 508-mile journey across the entire Commonwealth, U.S. Route 58 holds the clear title as the longest highway in Virginia. From the historic Cumberland Gap to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, this roadway offers travelers a unique cross-section of Virginia's diverse geography, culture, and economy. It stands as a vital and enduring corridor, truly tying the mountains to the sea.
Sources:
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Virginia Tourism Corporation (Virginia.org)
Historical road maps and highway logs for Virginia
Local tourism boards for regions along U.S. Route 58
What is The longest Highway in The State of Virginia?
What is The longest Highway in The State of Virginia?
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