U.S. Route 421 in North Carolina
Encyclopedia
U.S. Route 421 traverses approximately 328 miles (527.9 km) across North Carolina
; from Fort Fisher
, on a peninsula between the Atlantic
and Cape Fear River
, to the Tennessee
state line near the community of Zionville
.
Majority of the highway is part of the North Carolina Strategic Highway Corridors system. Because of this designation, the state has made numerous changes converting a rural two-lane highway into a major Freeway
/Expressway
with 4 or more 6 lanes. Finding a road named "Old U.S. Route 421" is not uncommon along the entire route.
side of the peninsula; within a quarter of a mile, the Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal is located where travelers can ride a ferry to Southport
. Immediately after the ferry terminal is the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
, where the Battle of Fort Fisher
took place.
The highway continues north, going through popular tourist destinations in New Hanover county: Kure Beach
, Wilmington Beach
, and Carolina Beach
. US 421 eventually enters Wilmington
along the riverside of the city. At Wooster Street, it goes west, merging with several other highways and funnel through Brunswick county before returning back in northwestern New Hanover county; there it links with I-140 before continuing north towards Clinton
.
is mostly two-lane road through the countryside (with exception to Clinton, where it is a freeway bypassing west of the city). There is one rest area located just north of Delway
. Most travelers today use I-40, which parallels US 421 10 miles (16.1 km) to its east. Thus this section will unlikely to ever be widen like it has throughout the rest of the state.
From Dunn to Lillington
, it expands into an expressway, connecting the two cities and Campbell University
. At Lillington, it goes through town before redirecting towards Sanford
to its west, via two-lane road.
to Fayetteville
on a four-lane highway that bypasses most cities along its route with US 421 and NC 87.
Just west of the US 1/15/501 freeway, US 421 becomes an expressway; passing effortlessly by towns it once serviced: Goldston
, Bear Creek
, Siler City
, Staley
, and Liberty
.
, US 421 transitions from an expressway to a freeway by overlapping with I-85; it also goes west from this point till Sugar Grove
. As the modern eight-lane I-85/US 421 overlap loops south of Greensboro
, it soon connects with I-73 and switches to overlap it. Another six miles later, it switches again to I-40 and continues on towards Winston-Salem
. Near Kernersville
, US 421 switches one last time with Business Loop I-40 going into downtown Winston-Salem. The freeway section through Winston-Salem is the oldest in the Triad and will typically have some construction for either road or bridge repair; Luckily, people can bypass the downtown area by staying on I-40 then taking exit 188, where US 421 meets up again.
. From Winston-Salem to Wilkesboro
, US 421 continues on four-lane freeway, much of which was built between 1992-2002. This section of the highway is mostly farmland, with only Yadkinville as a viable place to stop for food and drink. When the highway nears North Wilkesboro
, drivers will be able to see the North Wilkesboro Speedway
(access via exit 282); there is also a Visitor Center
, built in 2009 as the state's first environmentally friendly rest area, located at mile marker 283. As US 421 enters Wilkesboro city limits, it downgrades to an expressway with various stores and restaurants along it. Travelers should anticipate higher traffic volumes between US 421 Business junction and NC 16 junction in Wilkesboro.
, till approximately five miles from Deep Gap
where it climbs up significantly. Fortunately, compared to US 221 and US 321 that heads towards Boone
, US 421 is considered the safest by being the least steep and curvy route. Access to the Blue Ridge Parkway
is located at Deep Gap, as US 421 continues on towards Boone.
As US 421 enters Boone, the expressway ends into a construction zone that plans to widen the highway to Hardin Street. Once past Hardin Street, the road narrows through the downtown area. Traffic is typically bumper-to-bumper, so drivers can follow the US 421 Truck route as an alternate to avoid the downtown area. Boone is also unique that sister routes US 221 and US 321 connect at various points in town; however only the Truck Routes of US 221, US 321, and US 421 join together as they overlap with NC 105 going southwest around town. After leaving Boone, US 421 continues on as a two-lane road to the Tennessee state line, heading on to Mountain City
.
. US 421 only makes-up only a small section of the total byway, near Greenfield Parks and Gardens. The overall byway is noted for its scenic urban areas, colonial-era streets, the U.S.S. North Carolina
, and the city parks. Other roads and highways that make-up the byway are: US 74
, US 17 Bus., 3rd Street, Water Street, Front Street, Castle Street, 5th Street, and Lake Shore Drive.
U.S. 421 Scenic Byway is an 8 miles (12.9 km) byway from the Blue Ridge Parkway
to the South Fork New River
near Boone
, all within Watauga County
. The route is noted for its panoramic views of Snake Mountain
and Elk Knob, as well as the forests, horse/cattle farms, and Fraser Fir
Christmas Tree farms.
, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) section, known as King Street, is being widen from four to six-lanes with a raised concrete median from U.S. 321 (Hardin Street) to east of N.C. 194 (Jefferson Road). The project cost $16.2 million and is expected to be completed at the end of 2011.
In Kernersville
, the roadway improvements and extension of Macy Grove Road will include the construction of a new interchange with I-40 Business
/US 421. Property acquisition is to begin in 2012.
In Winston-Salem
, shared with I-40 Business
, a 1 miles (1.6 km) section from west of Fourth Street to east of Church Street has begun project development studies to completely upgrade and streamline. The project includes removing the existing pavement and replacing it with new concrete pavement, upgrade and modernize entrance and exit ramps, and replace most of the bridges on and over the freeway. No cost or time frame has been given at this time.
In New Hanover
and Brunswick
counties, the Cape Fear Skyway
has begun its project development studies (since 2007) to build a toll road
and bridge
that will bypass Wilmington
. Early estimates range from $950-$1.1 billion. The environmental impact study is expected to complete in 2014, a record of decision and a complete financial feasibility will be done in 2015.
!County
!Location
!Mile
!Exit
!Destinations
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=4|New Hanover
|Fort Fisher
|0.2
|
|Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal
|US 421 begins 0.2 mile (0.321868 km) south of terminal; ferry service to Southport
|-
|Myrtle Grove
|13.5
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Wilmington
|18
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|20
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of US 76 overlap, north end of US 17 Business overlap
|-
|Brunswick
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|21
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|, Myrtle Beach
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 17/US 17 Business/NC 133 overlap, west end of US 74/76 overlap
|-
|rowspan=2|New Hanover
|rowspan=2|
| style="background:#dfd;"|23
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of US 74 overlap, north end of NC 133 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|25.5
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 17 overlap
|-
|rowspan=3|Pender
|Long Creek
|38.5
|
|
|Also to Moores Creek National Battlefield
on west NC 210
|-
|Malpass Corner
| style="background:#dfd;"|44
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 11 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|52
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 11 overlap
|-
|rowspan=10|Sampson
|Harrells
|60
|
|
|
|-
|Delway
|65
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=5|Clinton
| style="background:#dfd;"|79
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 701 overlap
|-
|80
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|81
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|Southbound entrance and northbound exit, east end of NC 24 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|82
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 24 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|83
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 701 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|95
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 242 overlap
|-
|rowspan=2|Spivey's Corner
|99
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|100
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 242 overlap
|-
|rowspan=6|Harnett
|rowspan=2|Dunn
| style="background:#dfd;"|109
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 55 overlap
|-
|110
|
|
|
|-
|Erwin
| style="background:#dfd;"|114
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 55 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|119
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 27 overlap; Harnett County Airport at intersection
|-
|rowspan=2|Lillington
| style="background:#dfd;"|124
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 401 and NC 210 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|125
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 401/NC 210 overlap, east end of NC 27 overlap
|-
|rowspan=4|Lee
|rowspan=4|Sanford
| style="background:#dfd;"|144
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 87 overlap (Future Exit 143 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|145
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 42 overlap (Future Exit 144 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|147
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 42 overlap; also junction of U.S. Bike Route 1
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|149
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 87 overlap (Future Exit 149 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
|rowspan=4|Chatham
|rowspan=2|
|163
|
|
|
|-
|168
|168
|Sam Fields Road – Siler City
|
|-
|Siler City
|171
|171
|
|
|-
|
|174
|174
|Piney Grove Church Road
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Randolph
|Staley
|180
|180
|Old US Highway 421 – Liberty
, Staley
|
|-
|rowspan=2|
|181
|181
|
|
|-
|184
|
|Old Liberty Road – Liberty
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Guilford
|rowspan=2|
|190
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|197
| style="background:#dfd;"|197
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of I-85 overlap
|-
!colspan=6|US 421 overlaps with Interstate 85 (exits 126 to 121), Interstate 73 (exits 97 to 103), Interstate 40 (exits 212 to 206), and Interstate 40 Business (exits 16 to 1).
|-
|rowspan=6|Forsyth
|rowspan=3|Winston-Salem
| style="background:#dfd;"|234
| style="background:#dfd;"|238
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of Interstate 40 Business overlap
|-
|235
|239
|Jonestown Road
|
|-
|236
|240
|Peace Haven Road
|
|-
|-
|rowspan=2|Lewisville
|238
|242
|Lewisville-Clemmons Road – Lewisville
, Clemmons
|
|-
|240
|244
|Williams Road – Lewisville
|
|-
|
|242
|246
|Shallowford Road
|
|-
|rowspan=10|Yadkin
|rowspan=4|
|245
|249
|Dinkins Bottoms Road/Baltimore Road
|
|-
|247
|251
|Spear Bridge Road
|
|-
|249
|253
|Shacktown Road/Old Stage Road
|
|-
|252
|256
|Unifi Industrial Road
|
|-
|Yadkinville
|253
|257
|
|
|-
|
|255
|259
|Reavis Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Brooks Crossroads
|259
|263
|
|
|-
|260
|264
|Asbury Church Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|
|262
|265
|
|Northbound is exit 265A, southbound is exit 265B
|-
|264
|267
|Windsor Road/Oak Grove Church Road
|
|-
|rowspan=10|Wilkes
|rowspan=5|
|267
|270
|Dennyville Road
|
|-
|269
|272
|
|
|-
|273
|276
|
|
|-
|274
|277
|Windy Gap Road/Speedway Road
|
|-
|279
|282
|
|
|-
|rowspan=5|Wilkesboro
|282
|285
|Brushy Mountain Road – Wilkesboro
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|283
| style="background:#dfd;"|286A
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 16 overlap
|-
|283.5
|286B
|
|
|-
|284
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|287
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 16 overlap
|-
|rowspan=7|Watauga
|rowspan=2|Deep Gap
|304
|
|Blue Ridge Parkway
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|305
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 221 overlap
|-
|rowspan=3|Boone
| style="background:#dfd;"|313
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 194 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|314
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 221 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|314.5
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 321 overlap
|-
|Vilas
| style="background:#dfd;"|320
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 194 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|Sugar Grove
| style="background:#dfd;"|321
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"| – Elizabethton
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 321 overlap
|-
Note – Exit numbers west of Winston-Salem are aligned when US 421 went north around Greensboro in late-80s/early-90s. As a result from realignments in Greensboro, the actual mileage vs. exit number mileage is off by an average of 3.5 miles (5.6 km).
Historically, two other business loops existed in the state for short periods of time: Clinton from 1960-1963 and Wilmington from 1969-70 to 1979.
North Carolina
North Carolina is a state located in the southeastern United States. The state borders South Carolina and Georgia to the south, Tennessee to the west and Virginia to the north. North Carolina contains 100 counties. Its capital is Raleigh, and its largest city is Charlotte...
; from Fort Fisher
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a North Carolina state park in New Hanover County, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Kure Beach, North Carolina, it includes Fort Fisher, site of a major naval engagement during the American Civil War. The recreation area also served as a home...
, on a peninsula between the Atlantic
Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world's oceanic divisions. With a total area of about , it covers approximately 20% of the Earth's surface and about 26% of its water surface area...
and Cape Fear River
Cape Fear River
The Cape Fear River is a long blackwater river in east central North Carolina in the United States. It flows into the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Fear, from which it takes its name. The overall water quality of the river is continuously measured and monitored by and conducted by the , , and the...
, to the Tennessee
Tennessee
Tennessee is a U.S. state located in the Southeastern United States. It has a population of 6,346,105, making it the nation's 17th-largest state by population, and covers , making it the 36th-largest by total land area...
state line near the community of Zionville
Zionville, North Carolina
Zionville is an unincorporated community located in Watauga County, North Carolina, United States. The community lies at the North Carolina/Tennessee state line, between Boone and Mountain City, along Old US Highway 421.-History:...
.
Majority of the highway is part of the North Carolina Strategic Highway Corridors system. Because of this designation, the state has made numerous changes converting a rural two-lane highway into a major Freeway
Controlled-access highway
A controlled-access highway is a highway designed exclusively for high-speed vehicular traffic, with all traffic flow and ingress/egress regulated...
/Expressway
Limited-access road
A limited-access road known by various terms worldwide, including limited-access highway, dual-carriageway and expressway, is a highway or arterial road for high-speed traffic which has many or most characteristics of a controlled-access highway , including limited or no access to adjacent...
with 4 or more 6 lanes. Finding a road named "Old U.S. Route 421" is not uncommon along the entire route.
New Hanover County
US 421 starts at a parking/dock area on the Cape FearCape Fear River
The Cape Fear River is a long blackwater river in east central North Carolina in the United States. It flows into the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Fear, from which it takes its name. The overall water quality of the river is continuously measured and monitored by and conducted by the , , and the...
side of the peninsula; within a quarter of a mile, the Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal is located where travelers can ride a ferry to Southport
Southport, North Carolina
Southport is a city in Brunswick County, North Carolina, near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. It is part of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area...
. Immediately after the ferry terminal is the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a North Carolina state park in New Hanover County, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Kure Beach, North Carolina, it includes Fort Fisher, site of a major naval engagement during the American Civil War. The recreation area also served as a home...
, where the Battle of Fort Fisher
Battle of Fort Fisher
Two battles were fought over Fort Fisher during the American Civil War. The first battle was a failed attempt by the Union army and Navy to capture the fort. The second battle was a successful operation which led to the fall of the fort and the city of Wilmington, North Carolina.* First Battle of...
took place.
The highway continues north, going through popular tourist destinations in New Hanover county: Kure Beach
Kure Beach, North Carolina
Kure Beach (ˈkjʊərɪ KYUR-ee) is a town in New Hanover County, North Carolina about 15 miles south of Wilmington. It is part of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 1,507 at the 2000 census...
, Wilmington Beach
Wilmington Beach, North Carolina
Wilmington Beach was a coastal unincorporated community on Pleasure Island in North Carolina, U.S. that was annexed by the town of Carolina Beach in 2000. Prior to the annexation, the small community was a buffer between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. U.S. Highway 421 and Ocean Boulevard are the...
, and Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Carolina Beach is a town in New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 4,701 at the 2000 census. It is located on part of the Wilmington metropolitan area...
. US 421 eventually enters Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a port city in and is the county seat of New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population is 106,476 according to the 2010 Census, making it the eighth most populous city in the state of North Carolina...
along the riverside of the city. At Wooster Street, it goes west, merging with several other highways and funnel through Brunswick county before returning back in northwestern New Hanover county; there it links with I-140 before continuing north towards Clinton
Clinton, North Carolina
Clinton is the county seat of Sampson County, North Carolina, United States. The population of Clinton is 8,639 according to the 2010 US Census. Clinton is named for American Revolution General Richard Clinton.-History:...
.
Down East
The road between Wilmington and DunnDunn, North Carolina
Dunn is a city in Harnett County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 9,196 at the 2000 census.It is the birthplace of early an rock and roll guitar player, Link Wray, and General William C. Lee, father of the American Army Airborne. The city's slogan is "It's all right here." The...
is mostly two-lane road through the countryside (with exception to Clinton, where it is a freeway bypassing west of the city). There is one rest area located just north of Delway
Delway, North Carolina
Delway is a census-designated place in Sampson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 270 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Delway is located at ....
. Most travelers today use I-40, which parallels US 421 10 miles (16.1 km) to its east. Thus this section will unlikely to ever be widen like it has throughout the rest of the state.
From Dunn to Lillington
Lillington, North Carolina
Lillington is a town in Harnett County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,915 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Harnett County.-Geography:Lillington is located at ....
, it expands into an expressway, connecting the two cities and Campbell University
Campbell University
Campbell University is a coeducational, church-related university in rural North Carolina, USA. Its main campus is located in the community of Buies Creek; its law school moved from Buies Creek to a new campus in the state capital of Raleigh in 2009. Campbell has an approximately equal number of...
. At Lillington, it goes through town before redirecting towards Sanford
Sanford, North Carolina
Sanford is a city in Lee County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 23,220 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Lee County.-Geography:Sanford is located at ....
to its west, via two-lane road.
Lee County to Randolph County
At Sanford, US 421 currently goes through the town, but eventually it will bypass the city entirely with the Sanford Bypass (majority of which already built, but does not link to US 421). Once the Sanford Bypass is completed, it connect GreensboroGreensboro, North Carolina
Greensboro is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It is the third-largest city by population in North Carolina and the largest city in Guilford County and the surrounding Piedmont Triad metropolitan region. According to the 2010 U.S...
to Fayetteville
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Fayetteville is a city located in Cumberland County, North Carolina, United States. It is the county seat of Cumberland County, and is best known as the home of Fort Bragg, a U.S. Army post located northwest of the city....
on a four-lane highway that bypasses most cities along its route with US 421 and NC 87.
Just west of the US 1/15/501 freeway, US 421 becomes an expressway; passing effortlessly by towns it once serviced: Goldston
Goldston, North Carolina
Goldston is a town in Chatham County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 319 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Goldston is located at ....
, Bear Creek
Bear Creek, North Carolina
Bear Creek is an unincorporated community in southwestern Chatham County, North Carolina, United States. It is named for a nearby creek that eventually flows into the Rocky River. The community lies along Old US Highway 421 and is situated between Siler City and Goldston.Bear Creek is home to...
, Siler City
Siler City, North Carolina
Siler City is a town in Chatham County, North Carolina, United States. The population is right at 8,747 within corporate limits and 14,005 within corporate limits and ETJ...
, Staley
Staley, North Carolina
Staley is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 347 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Staley is located at ....
, and Liberty
Liberty, North Carolina
Liberty is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States.-History:Originally named Liberty Oak, the town was founded in 1809 near the plantation of John Leak . The first church within the town was the Liberty Christian Church founded on October 11, 1884...
.
Piedmont Triad
Near Pleasant GardenPleasant Garden, North Carolina
Pleasant Garden is a town in Guilford County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 4,714 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Pleasant Garden is located at ....
, US 421 transitions from an expressway to a freeway by overlapping with I-85; it also goes west from this point till Sugar Grove
Sugar Grove, North Carolina
Sugar Grove is an unincorporated community located in Watauga County, North Carolina, United States. It is named after the sugar maples that grow in the area. The community is located along US 321, west of Vilas and Boone, along the banks of Cove Creek....
. As the modern eight-lane I-85/US 421 overlap loops south of Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina
Greensboro is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It is the third-largest city by population in North Carolina and the largest city in Guilford County and the surrounding Piedmont Triad metropolitan region. According to the 2010 U.S...
, it soon connects with I-73 and switches to overlap it. Another six miles later, it switches again to I-40 and continues on towards Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
. Near Kernersville
Kernersville, North Carolina
Kernersville is a town in Forsyth County in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The population was 17,126 at the 2000 census. In 2007 the U.S. Census estimated the town's population at 22,309. Kernersville is located at the heart of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, which consists of the cities...
, US 421 switches one last time with Business Loop I-40 going into downtown Winston-Salem. The freeway section through Winston-Salem is the oldest in the Triad and will typically have some construction for either road or bridge repair; Luckily, people can bypass the downtown area by staying on I-40 then taking exit 188, where US 421 meets up again.
Western Piedmont and Foothills
At either exit 1 (via Business Loop I-40) or exit 188 (via I-40), US 421 separates toward YadkinvilleYadkinville, North Carolina
Yadkinville is a town in Yadkin County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,818 at the 2000 census. Located in the Piedmont Triad, it is the county seat and largest city of Yadkin County.-Geography:Yadkinville is located at ....
. From Winston-Salem to Wilkesboro
Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Wilkesboro is a town in and the county seat of Wilkes County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 3,159 at the 2000 census, and it is the second largest municipality in the county. The 2010 Census listed the town's population at 3,044. The town is located along the south bank of the...
, US 421 continues on four-lane freeway, much of which was built between 1992-2002. This section of the highway is mostly farmland, with only Yadkinville as a viable place to stop for food and drink. When the highway nears North Wilkesboro
North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
North Wilkesboro is a town in Wilkes County, North Carolina, United States. The population was approximately 4,116 at the 2000 census and is now 4,245 as of the 2010 census. North Wilkesboro is the birthplace and original home of Lowe's Home Improvement, which continues to have a major presence in...
, drivers will be able to see the North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro Speedway was a short track that held races in NASCAR's top three series from NASCAR's inception in 1949 until its closure in 1996...
(access via exit 282); there is also a Visitor Center
Visitor center
A visitor center or centre , visitor information center, tourist information center, is a physical location that provides tourist information to the visitors who tour the place or area locally...
, built in 2009 as the state's first environmentally friendly rest area, located at mile marker 283. As US 421 enters Wilkesboro city limits, it downgrades to an expressway with various stores and restaurants along it. Travelers should anticipate higher traffic volumes between US 421 Business junction and NC 16 junction in Wilkesboro.
High Country
As it leaves Wilkesboro, US 421 begins a gradual climbs up the Blue Ridge MountainsBlue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a physiographic province of the larger Appalachian Mountains range. This province consists of northern and southern physiographic regions, which divide near the Roanoke River gap. The mountain range is located in the eastern United States, starting at its southern-most...
, till approximately five miles from Deep Gap
Deep Gap, North Carolina
Deep Gap is an unincorporated community located in Watauga County, North Carolina, United States. The community is named after the natural gap, called Deep Gap, at Fire Scale Mountain, where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses over US 421...
where it climbs up significantly. Fortunately, compared to US 221 and US 321 that heads towards Boone
Boone, North Carolina
Boone is a town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, United States. Boone's population was reported as 17,122, as of 2010...
, US 421 is considered the safest by being the least steep and curvy route. Access to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road in the United States, noted for its scenic beauty. It runs for 469 miles , mostly along the famous Blue Ridge, a major mountain chain that is part of the Appalachian Mountains...
is located at Deep Gap, as US 421 continues on towards Boone.
As US 421 enters Boone, the expressway ends into a construction zone that plans to widen the highway to Hardin Street. Once past Hardin Street, the road narrows through the downtown area. Traffic is typically bumper-to-bumper, so drivers can follow the US 421 Truck route as an alternate to avoid the downtown area. Boone is also unique that sister routes US 221 and US 321 connect at various points in town; however only the Truck Routes of US 221, US 321, and US 421 join together as they overlap with NC 105 going southwest around town. After leaving Boone, US 421 continues on as a two-lane road to the Tennessee state line, heading on to Mountain City
Mountain City, Tennessee
Mountain City is a town in Johnson County, Tennessee, United States. The population was 2,383 at the 2000 census. It is the northeasternmost county seat in Tennessee; Mountain City is the county seat of Johnson County.-History:...
.
Scenic byways
Cape Fear Historic Byway is an 8 miles (12.9 km) byway in downtown WilmingtonWilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a port city in and is the county seat of New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population is 106,476 according to the 2010 Census, making it the eighth most populous city in the state of North Carolina...
. US 421 only makes-up only a small section of the total byway, near Greenfield Parks and Gardens. The overall byway is noted for its scenic urban areas, colonial-era streets, the U.S.S. North Carolina
USS North Carolina (BB-55)
USS North Carolina was the lead ship of her class of battleship and the fourth in the United States Navy to be named in honor of this U.S. state. She was the first new-construction U.S. battleship to enter service during World War II, participating in every major naval offensive in the Pacific...
, and the city parks. Other roads and highways that make-up the byway are: US 74
U.S. Route 74
U.S. Route 74 is an east–west United States highway that runs for from Cleveland, Tennessee to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.-Tennessee:Established in 1987, US-74 western terminus is exit 20 on I-75 in Cleveland...
, US 17 Bus., 3rd Street, Water Street, Front Street, Castle Street, 5th Street, and Lake Shore Drive.
U.S. 421 Scenic Byway is an 8 miles (12.9 km) byway from the Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road in the United States, noted for its scenic beauty. It runs for 469 miles , mostly along the famous Blue Ridge, a major mountain chain that is part of the Appalachian Mountains...
to the South Fork New River
South Fork New River
The South Fork New River is a river in the U.S. state of North Carolina.It stretches from its headwaters at a spring near Blowing Rock and the Eastern Continental Divide and meanders northward along the northwestern face of the Blue Ridge Mountains through the eastern and central portions of...
near Boone
Boone, North Carolina
Boone is a town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, United States. Boone's population was reported as 17,122, as of 2010...
, all within Watauga County
Watauga County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 42,695 people, 16,540 households, and 9,411 families residing in the county. The population density was 137 people per square mile . There were 23,155 housing units at an average density of 74 per square mile...
. The route is noted for its panoramic views of Snake Mountain
Snake Mountain (North Carolina)
Snake Mountian is a mountain in the North Carolina High Country, east of the community of Zionville. Its elevation reaches .The mountain generates several feeder streams to the North Fork New River , South Fork New River and Watauga River...
and Elk Knob, as well as the forests, horse/cattle farms, and Fraser Fir
Fraser Fir
Abies fraseri is a species of fir native to the mountains of the eastern United States. It is closely related to Abies balsamea , of which it has occasionally been treated as a subspecies or a variety Abies fraseri (Fraser fir) is a species of fir native to the mountains of the eastern United...
Christmas Tree farms.
History
- 1931 - US 421 officially appears on highway maps starting from Winston-Salem (junction with US 70/170) to Boone at King/Harding Street intersection (junction with US 221/321). It was solely within the state of North Carolina and was completely overlapped with NC 60.
- 1932 - US 421 was extended both north and south. North from Boone, it extended to Sugar Grove where it then replaced US 321 heading towards Mountain City, Tennessee; US 321 redirects towards Elizabethton, Tennessee. From Winston-Salem, the highway is routed to Wilmington following NC 60.
- 1933 - Highway was realigned around Boone (using a straighter alignment) and in Greensboro (Market Street).
- 1934 - NC 60 is completely removed from its original route, leaving US 421. NC 60 gets renumbered on a short highway in Cherokee county, where it continues to this day.
- 1936 - US 421 is extended south from Wilmington to Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Fort Fisher, replacing NC 40.
- 1951-1952 - US 421 bypasses Clinton (on what would be today's Faircloth Freeway). The Wilkesboro area is realigned through town to North Wilkesboro.
- 1954-1955 - US 421 is rerouted going west out of Wilmington via US 17/74/76, then north following NC 133.
- 1957-1958 - US 421 is realigned onto a straighter routing between Deep Gap to Wilkesboro. US 421 is redirected out of North Wilkesboro, old routing is rebranded as US 421-A (Now US 421 Business). US 421 is placed onto one-way streets within Winston-Salem (using 4th and 5th streets), it is also rerouted in Greensboro going from Market Street to Henry Blvd Freeway. Between Erwin and Dunn, US 421 is realigned onto a new four-lane expressway.
- 1962-1963 - US 421 is realigned onto a new road near Sugar Grove and Zionville, leaving the communities of Amantha and Mabel. Between Yadkinville and Winston-Salem, US 421 is given its current alignment, expanding to a freeway after the Yadkin River to I-40; it then overlaps with I-40 through downtown Winston-Salem. In Harnett county, US 421 is moved north, avoiding the community of Mamers, and enters Lillington via Front Street. US 421 is straighten out through Harrells.
- 1964-1968 - US 421 becomes one-way streets through downtown Greensboro (Market Street and Madison/Gaston Avenues). US 421 is rerouted onto the new Faircloth Freeway in Clinton.
- 1969-1970 - US 421 is rerouted onto the new Cape Fear Bridge in Wilmington. US 421 is realigned around Bonlee and Bear Creek.
- 1971-1984 - US 421 completes its bypass around Wilkesboro. Between Greensboro and Staley is upgraded to expressway standards (Joseph M. Hunt Jr Expressway) and bypasses the communities of Pleasant Garden, Climax, Julian, and Liberty. US 421 is rerouted in Stanford, avoiding the community of Broadway.
- 1987-1990 - The Siler City bypass is completed. US 421 is rerouted going north around Greensboro then going south on Henry Boulevard (US 29).
- 1994-1999 - US 421 is removed from all surface roads from Kernersville to Grensboro, follows I-40 to Joseph M. Hunt Jr Expressway.
- 2000-2003 - US 421 is realigned and widen to 4-lane freeway between Yadkinville to Wilkesboro and a 4-lane expressway between Wilkesboro to Boone (though some parts already pre-existed for before 2000). This completes US 421 as a 4-lane (or more) highway from Sanford to Boone.
- 2008 - US 421 is realigned in Greensboro to follow the new southern loop, overlapping with I-73 and I-85 to Jospeph M. Hunt Jr Expressway. This was done to give drivers a route direction to Winston-Salem after I-40 returned to its original routing after one year on the southern loop.
Future
In BooneBoone, North Carolina
Boone is a town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, United States. Boone's population was reported as 17,122, as of 2010...
, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) section, known as King Street, is being widen from four to six-lanes with a raised concrete median from U.S. 321 (Hardin Street) to east of N.C. 194 (Jefferson Road). The project cost $16.2 million and is expected to be completed at the end of 2011.
In Kernersville
Kernersville, North Carolina
Kernersville is a town in Forsyth County in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The population was 17,126 at the 2000 census. In 2007 the U.S. Census estimated the town's population at 22,309. Kernersville is located at the heart of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, which consists of the cities...
, the roadway improvements and extension of Macy Grove Road will include the construction of a new interchange with I-40 Business
Interstate 40 Business (North Carolina)
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 40 Business is a business loop of Interstate 40; which serves the cities of Winston-Salem and Kernersville.-Route description:...
/US 421. Property acquisition is to begin in 2012.
In Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
, shared with I-40 Business
Interstate 40 Business (North Carolina)
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 40 Business is a business loop of Interstate 40; which serves the cities of Winston-Salem and Kernersville.-Route description:...
, a 1 miles (1.6 km) section from west of Fourth Street to east of Church Street has begun project development studies to completely upgrade and streamline. The project includes removing the existing pavement and replacing it with new concrete pavement, upgrade and modernize entrance and exit ramps, and replace most of the bridges on and over the freeway. No cost or time frame has been given at this time.
In New Hanover
New Hanover County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 160,307 people, 68,183 households, and 41,591 families residing in the county. The population density was 806 people per square mile . There were 79,616 housing units at an average density of 400 per square mile...
and Brunswick
Brunswick County, North Carolina
-External links:*******....
counties, the Cape Fear Skyway
Cape Fear Skyway
The Cape Fear Skyway is a proposed limited access toll road and bridge to be built in North Carolina, United States, that will pass through portions of New Hanover and Brunswick counties.-Description:...
has begun its project development studies (since 2007) to build a toll road
Toll road
A toll road is a privately or publicly built road for which a driver pays a toll for use. Structures for which tolls are charged include toll bridges and toll tunnels. Non-toll roads are financed using other sources of revenue, most typically fuel tax or general tax funds...
and bridge
Toll bridge
A toll bridge is a bridge over which traffic may pass upon payment of a toll, or fee.- History :The practice of collecting tolls on bridges probably harks back to the days of ferry crossings where people paid a fee to be ferried across stretches of water. As boats became impractical to carry large...
that will bypass Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a port city in and is the county seat of New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population is 106,476 according to the 2010 Census, making it the eighth most populous city in the state of North Carolina...
. Early estimates range from $950-$1.1 billion. The environmental impact study is expected to complete in 2014, a record of decision and a complete financial feasibility will be done in 2015.
Junction list
{| class="wikitable"!County
!Location
!Mile
!Exit
Exit number
An exit number is a number assigned to a road junction, usually an exit from a freeway. It is usually marked on the same sign as the destinations of the exit, as well as a sign in the gore....
!Destinations
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=4|New Hanover
New Hanover County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 160,307 people, 68,183 households, and 41,591 families residing in the county. The population density was 806 people per square mile . There were 79,616 housing units at an average density of 400 per square mile...
|Fort Fisher
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a North Carolina state park in New Hanover County, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Kure Beach, North Carolina, it includes Fort Fisher, site of a major naval engagement during the American Civil War. The recreation area also served as a home...
|0.2
|
|Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal
|US 421 begins 0.2 mile (0.321868 km) south of terminal; ferry service to Southport
Southport, North Carolina
Southport is a city in Brunswick County, North Carolina, near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. It is part of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area...
|-
|Myrtle Grove
Myrtle Grove, North Carolina
Myrtle Grove is a census-designated place in New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 7,125 at the 2000 census...
|13.5
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a port city in and is the county seat of New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. The population is 106,476 according to the 2010 Census, making it the eighth most populous city in the state of North Carolina...
|18
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|20
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of US 76 overlap, north end of US 17 Business overlap
|-
|Brunswick
Brunswick County, North Carolina
-External links:*******....
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|21
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|, Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a coastal city on the east coast of the United States in Horry County, South Carolina. It is situated on the center of a large and continuous stretch of beach known as the Grand Strand in northeastern South Carolina. It is considered to be a major tourist destination in the...
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 17/US 17 Business/NC 133 overlap, west end of US 74/76 overlap
|-
|rowspan=2|New Hanover
New Hanover County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 160,307 people, 68,183 households, and 41,591 families residing in the county. The population density was 806 people per square mile . There were 79,616 housing units at an average density of 400 per square mile...
|rowspan=2|
| style="background:#dfd;"|23
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of US 74 overlap, north end of NC 133 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|25.5
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 17 overlap
|-
|rowspan=3|Pender
Pender County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 41,082 people, 16,054 households, and 11,719 families residing in the county. The population density was 47 people per square mile . There were 20,798 housing units at an average density of 24 per square mile...
|Long Creek
|38.5
|
|
|Also to Moores Creek National Battlefield
Moores Creek National Battlefield
Moores Creek National Battlefield is a United States National Battlefield managed by the National Park Service. The park commemorates the 1776 victory by 1,000 Patriots over about 800 Loyalists at the Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge. The battle dashed the hopes of Province of North Carolina Royal...
on west NC 210
|-
|Malpass Corner
| style="background:#dfd;"|44
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 11 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|52
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 11 overlap
|-
|rowspan=10|Sampson
Sampson County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 63,431 people, 22,624 households, and 16,214 families residing in the county. The population density was 67.1 people per square mile . There were 26,476 housing units at an average density of 27 per square mile...
|Harrells
Harrells, North Carolina
Harrells is a town in Sampson County and Duplin County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 187 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Harrells is located at ....
|60
|
|
|
|-
|Delway
Delway, North Carolina
Delway is a census-designated place in Sampson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 270 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Delway is located at ....
|65
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=5|Clinton
Clinton, North Carolina
Clinton is the county seat of Sampson County, North Carolina, United States. The population of Clinton is 8,639 according to the 2010 US Census. Clinton is named for American Revolution General Richard Clinton.-History:...
| style="background:#dfd;"|79
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 701 overlap
|-
|80
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|81
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|Southbound entrance and northbound exit, east end of NC 24 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|82
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 24 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|83
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 701 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|95
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 242 overlap
|-
|rowspan=2|Spivey's Corner
|99
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|100
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 242 overlap
|-
|rowspan=6|Harnett
Harnett County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 91,025 people, 33,800 households, and 24,099 families residing in the county. The population density was 153 people per square mile . There were 38,605 housing units at an average density of 65 per square mile...
|rowspan=2|Dunn
Dunn, North Carolina
Dunn is a city in Harnett County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 9,196 at the 2000 census.It is the birthplace of early an rock and roll guitar player, Link Wray, and General William C. Lee, father of the American Army Airborne. The city's slogan is "It's all right here." The...
| style="background:#dfd;"|109
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 55 overlap
|-
|110
|
|
|
|-
|Erwin
Erwin, North Carolina
Erwin is a town in Harnett County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 4,537 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Erwin is located at ....
| style="background:#dfd;"|114
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 55 overlap
|-
|
| style="background:#dfd;"|119
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 27 overlap; Harnett County Airport at intersection
|-
|rowspan=2|Lillington
Lillington, North Carolina
Lillington is a town in Harnett County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,915 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Harnett County.-Geography:Lillington is located at ....
| style="background:#dfd;"|124
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of US 401 and NC 210 overlap
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|125
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 401/NC 210 overlap, east end of NC 27 overlap
|-
|rowspan=4|Lee
Lee County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 49,040 people, 18,466 households, and 13,369 families residing in the county. The population density was 191 people per square mile . There were 19,909 housing units at an average density of 77 per square mile...
|rowspan=4|Sanford
Sanford, North Carolina
Sanford is a city in Lee County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 23,220 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Lee County.-Geography:Sanford is located at ....
| style="background:#dfd;"|144
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 87 overlap (Future Exit 143 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|145
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|East end of NC 42 overlap (Future Exit 144 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|147
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of NC 42 overlap; also junction of U.S. Bike Route 1
U.S. Bicycle Route 1
U.S. Bicycle Route 1 is a cross-country bicycle route that will run the length of the United States eastern seaboard from Florida to Maine. It is one of the two original U.S. Bicycle Routes, the other being U.S...
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|149
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 87 overlap (Future Exit 149 on Sanford Bypass)
|-
|rowspan=4|Chatham
Chatham County, North Carolina
Chatham County is a county located in the Piedmont area of the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of 2000, the population was 49,329. Its county seat is Pittsboro.-History:...
|rowspan=2|
|163
|
|
|
|-
|168
|168
|Sam Fields Road – Siler City
Siler City, North Carolina
Siler City is a town in Chatham County, North Carolina, United States. The population is right at 8,747 within corporate limits and 14,005 within corporate limits and ETJ...
|
|-
|Siler City
Siler City, North Carolina
Siler City is a town in Chatham County, North Carolina, United States. The population is right at 8,747 within corporate limits and 14,005 within corporate limits and ETJ...
|171
|171
|
|
|-
|
|174
|174
|Piney Grove Church Road
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Randolph
Randolph County, North Carolina
-Notable people:*Naomi Wise, murder victim*Richard Petty - Nascar driver.*Lee Petty - Nascar pioneer. Richard Petty's father.*Kyle Petty - Nascar driver. Son of Richard Petty*Adam Petty - Nascar driver. Kyle Petty's son...
|Staley
Staley, North Carolina
Staley is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 347 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Staley is located at ....
|180
|180
|Old US Highway 421 – Liberty
Liberty, North Carolina
Liberty is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States.-History:Originally named Liberty Oak, the town was founded in 1809 near the plantation of John Leak . The first church within the town was the Liberty Christian Church founded on October 11, 1884...
, Staley
Staley, North Carolina
Staley is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 347 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Staley is located at ....
|
|-
|rowspan=2|
|181
|181
|
|
|-
|184
|
|Old Liberty Road – Liberty
Liberty, North Carolina
Liberty is a town in Randolph County, North Carolina, United States.-History:Originally named Liberty Oak, the town was founded in 1809 near the plantation of John Leak . The first church within the town was the Liberty Christian Church founded on October 11, 1884...
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Guilford
Guilford County, North Carolina
Guilford County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. In 2010, the Census Bureau estimated the county's population to be 491,230. Its seat is Greensboro. Since 1938, an additional county court has been located in High Point, North Carolina, making Guilford one of only a handful...
|rowspan=2|
|190
|
|
|
|-
| style="background:#dfd;"|197
| style="background:#dfd;"|197
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of I-85 overlap
|-
!colspan=6|US 421 overlaps with Interstate 85 (exits 126 to 121), Interstate 73 (exits 97 to 103), Interstate 40 (exits 212 to 206), and Interstate 40 Business (exits 16 to 1).
|-
|rowspan=6|Forsyth
Forsyth County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 306,067 people, 123,851 households, and 81,741 families residing in the county. The population density was 747 people per square mile . There were 133,093 housing units at an average density of 325 per square mile...
|rowspan=3|Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
| style="background:#dfd;"|234
| style="background:#dfd;"|238
| style="background:#dfd;"|
| style="background:#dfd;"|West end of Interstate 40 Business overlap
|-
|235
|239
|Jonestown Road
|
|-
|236
|240
|Peace Haven Road
|
|-
|-
|rowspan=2|Lewisville
Lewisville, North Carolina
Lewisville is a village in Forsyth County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 12,639 at the 2010 census. It is a Piedmont Triad community.-Geography:Lewisville is located at ....
|238
|242
|Lewisville-Clemmons Road – Lewisville
Lewisville, North Carolina
Lewisville is a village in Forsyth County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 12,639 at the 2010 census. It is a Piedmont Triad community.-Geography:Lewisville is located at ....
, Clemmons
Clemmons, North Carolina
Clemmons is a village in Forsyth County, North Carolina and a suburb of Winston-Salem. The population was 18,627 at the 2010 census.-Geography:Clemmons is located at ....
|
|-
|240
|244
|Williams Road – Lewisville
Lewisville, North Carolina
Lewisville is a village in Forsyth County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 12,639 at the 2010 census. It is a Piedmont Triad community.-Geography:Lewisville is located at ....
|
|-
|
|242
|246
|Shallowford Road
|
|-
|rowspan=10|Yadkin
Yadkin County, North Carolina
- Cities and towns :*Boonville*East Bend*Jonesville*Yadkinville-Towns of the past:These towns were incorporated at one time:*Arlington, merged with Jonesville in 2001.*Hamptonville, chartered in 1818.*Huntsville, incorporated in 1792....
|rowspan=4|
|245
|249
|Dinkins Bottoms Road/Baltimore Road
|
|-
|247
|251
|Spear Bridge Road
|
|-
|249
|253
|Shacktown Road/Old Stage Road
|
|-
|252
|256
|Unifi Industrial Road
|
|-
|Yadkinville
Yadkinville, North Carolina
Yadkinville is a town in Yadkin County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,818 at the 2000 census. Located in the Piedmont Triad, it is the county seat and largest city of Yadkin County.-Geography:Yadkinville is located at ....
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|rowspan=2|Brooks Crossroads
Brooks Crossroads, North Carolina
Brooks Crossroads, also called Brooks Cross Roads, is an unincorporated community in Yadkin County, North Carolina, United States on U.S. Highway 421, west of Interstate 77....
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|Asbury Church Road
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|Northbound is exit 265A, southbound is exit 265B
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|264
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|Windsor Road/Oak Grove Church Road
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|rowspan=10|Wilkes
Wilkes County, North Carolina
Wilkes County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The 2000 U.S. Census listed the county's population at 65,632; the 2010 U.S. Census listed the population at 69,340...
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|Dennyville Road
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|Windy Gap Road/Speedway Road
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|rowspan=5|Wilkesboro
Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Wilkesboro is a town in and the county seat of Wilkes County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 3,159 at the 2000 census, and it is the second largest municipality in the county. The 2010 Census listed the town's population at 3,044. The town is located along the south bank of the...
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|Brushy Mountain Road – Wilkesboro
Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Wilkesboro is a town in and the county seat of Wilkes County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 3,159 at the 2000 census, and it is the second largest municipality in the county. The 2010 Census listed the town's population at 3,044. The town is located along the south bank of the...
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| style="background:#dfd;"|286A
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| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 16 overlap
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|rowspan=7|Watauga
Watauga County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 42,695 people, 16,540 households, and 9,411 families residing in the county. The population density was 137 people per square mile . There were 23,155 housing units at an average density of 74 per square mile...
|rowspan=2|Deep Gap
Deep Gap, North Carolina
Deep Gap is an unincorporated community located in Watauga County, North Carolina, United States. The community is named after the natural gap, called Deep Gap, at Fire Scale Mountain, where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses over US 421...
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|Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road in the United States, noted for its scenic beauty. It runs for 469 miles , mostly along the famous Blue Ridge, a major mountain chain that is part of the Appalachian Mountains...
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|rowspan=3|Boone
Boone, North Carolina
Boone is a town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, United States. Boone's population was reported as 17,122, as of 2010...
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| style="background:#dfd;"|North end of NC 194 overlap
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| style="background:#dfd;"|314
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| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of US 221 overlap
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| style="background:#dfd;"|314.5
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|Vilas
| style="background:#dfd;"|320
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| style="background:#dfd;"|South end of NC 194 overlap
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| style="background:#dfd;"|Sugar Grove
Sugar Grove, North Carolina
Sugar Grove is an unincorporated community located in Watauga County, North Carolina, United States. It is named after the sugar maples that grow in the area. The community is located along US 321, west of Vilas and Boone, along the banks of Cove Creek....
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| style="background:#dfd;"| – Elizabethton
Elizabethton, Tennessee
Elizabethton is the county seat of Carter County, Tennessee, United States. Elizabethton is also the historical site both of the first independent American government located west of both the Eastern Continental Divide and the original thirteen British American colonies.Elizabethton is also the...
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Note – Exit numbers west of Winston-Salem are aligned when US 421 went north around Greensboro in late-80s/early-90s. As a result from realignments in Greensboro, the actual mileage vs. exit number mileage is off by an average of 3.5 miles (5.6 km).
Bannered routes
Alternates
Currently, there are no alternate route in North Carolina. Historically there was three alternate routes: Greensboro from 1933 to 1936, Clinton from 1951 to 1960 (re-branded as business route), and North Wilkesboro from 1957 to 1960 (re-branded as business route).Business loops
Currently, there are one U.S. Route 421 Business loop in North Carolina:- North WilkesboroNorth Wilkesboro, North CarolinaNorth Wilkesboro is a town in Wilkes County, North Carolina, United States. The population was approximately 4,116 at the 2000 census and is now 4,245 as of the 2010 census. North Wilkesboro is the birthplace and original home of Lowe's Home Improvement, which continues to have a major presence in...
– Originally signed between 1957-58 as US 421A, it was re-branded in 1960 as a business route. This 6.2 miles (10 km) route goes through downtown North Wilkesboro, it is also known as D Street, B Street, and Statesville Road.
Historically, two other business loops existed in the state for short periods of time: Clinton from 1960-1963 and Wilmington from 1969-70 to 1979.
Alternate names
Though the highway is commonly known as "421" throughout the state, the highway does have other known names it uses locally in areas.- Burnett Boulevard - Road name briefly used in Wilmington, between Carolina Beach Road and 3rd Street.
- Carolina Beach Road - Road name from Seabreeze to Burnett Boulevard in Wilmington.
- Cornelius Harnett Boulevard - Road name from Main Street to Lillington city limit.
- Cumberland Street - Road name within Dunn city limits.
- Delway Highway - Road name between Harrells to Delway in Sampson county.
- Doc Watson Highway - Official name of highway between the Wilkes/Watauga county line to Boone.
- Faircloth Freeway - Road name within Clinton city limits.
- Fort Fisher Boulevard - Road name from Kura Beach to south terminus of US 421.
- Front Street - Road name from main street to Lillington city limit.
- King Street - Road name within Boone city limits.
- Lake Park Boulevard - Road name within Carolina Beach city limits.
- Jackson Boulevard - Road name within Erwin city limits.
- Joseph M. Hunt Jr Expressway - Road name from Randolph/Guilford county line to I-85; expressway continues on into Greensboro, which was an old US 421 alignment.
- Paul Green Memorial Highway - Road Name from Erwin to Lillington.
- Plain View Highway - Road name from US 13 in Spivey's Corner to I-95 near Dunn.
- Main Street - Road name between Cornelius Harnett Boulevard and Front Street in Lillington.
- Northwest Boulevard - Road name from Clinton to Kitty Fork.
- Spivey's Corner Highway - Road name from Kitty Fork to US 13 in Spivey's Corner.
- Taylors Bridge Highway - Road name from Delway to Clinton.
- Watson Brame Expressway - Road name throughout Wilkes county.
- Wilmington Highway - Road name from the Sampson/Pender county line to Harrells.
- Carolina Beach Road
- Lake Park Blvd.
- Fort Fisher Blvd.
See also
- Cape Fear RiverCape Fear RiverThe Cape Fear River is a long blackwater river in east central North Carolina in the United States. It flows into the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Fear, from which it takes its name. The overall water quality of the river is continuously measured and monitored by and conducted by the , , and the...
- Carolina Beach State ParkCarolina Beach State ParkCarolina Beach State Park is a North Carolina state park in New Hanover County, North Carolina in the United States. It is near Carolina Beach, North Carolina and covers 761 acres on Pleasure Island at the mouth of the Cape Fear River.-Information:...
- Fort Fisher State Recreation AreaFort Fisher State Recreation AreaFort Fisher State Recreation Area is a North Carolina state park in New Hanover County, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Kure Beach, North Carolina, it includes Fort Fisher, site of a major naval engagement during the American Civil War. The recreation area also served as a home...
- Hagan Stone ParkHagan Stone ParkHagan-Stone Park is a scenic wildlife refuge and family campground owned and operated by the city of Greensboro, North Carolina located on Hagan Stone Park Road off U.S. Highway 421. It is open daily 8 am to sunset, weather permitting....
- Moores Creek National BattlefieldMoores Creek National BattlefieldMoores Creek National Battlefield is a United States National Battlefield managed by the National Park Service. The park commemorates the 1776 victory by 1,000 Patriots over about 800 Loyalists at the Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge. The battle dashed the hopes of Province of North Carolina Royal...
- Raven Rock State ParkRaven Rock State ParkRaven Rock State Park is a North Carolina state park in Harnett County, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Lillington, North Carolina, it covers along the banks of the Cape Fear River...
- South Fork New RiverSouth Fork New RiverThe South Fork New River is a river in the U.S. state of North Carolina.It stretches from its headwaters at a spring near Blowing Rock and the Eastern Continental Divide and meanders northward along the northwestern face of the Blue Ridge Mountains through the eastern and central portions of...
- U.S. Route 21U.S. Route 21U.S. Route 21 is a north–south United States highway of , from Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina to Wytheville, Virginia.-South Carolina:...
- U.S.S. North Carolina Battleship MemorialUSS North Carolina (BB-55)USS North Carolina was the lead ship of her class of battleship and the fourth in the United States Navy to be named in honor of this U.S. state. She was the first new-construction U.S. battleship to enter service during World War II, participating in every major naval offensive in the Pacific...
- W. Kerr Scott Reservoir
- Yadkin RiverYadkin RiverThe Yadkin River is one of the longest rivers in North Carolina, flowing . It rises in the northwestern portion of the state near the Blue Ridge Parkway's Thunder Hill Overlook. Several parts of the river are impounded by dams for water, power, and flood control. The river becomes the Pee Dee...