Which mountain range inhibits east-west travel in Eastern North America?

The Appalachian Mountains are the mountain range that inhibits east-west travel in Eastern North America. This range extends from Newfoundland in Canada down to central Alabama in the United States and is composed of a series of ridges and valleys. The formidable terrain of the Appalachians, with their steep elevations and rugged features, creates significant barriers for transportation and travel in an east-west direction.

Historically, this has influenced the development of transportation routes, leading to the establishment of roads and railways that either circumvent the mountains or wind through the valleys. The geological characteristics of the range, such as its older, eroded peaks, also contribute to a more challenging travel environment compared to other mountain ranges.

The other mountain ranges listed, such as the Rocky Mountains and Andes Mountains, are located in different parts of the world (Western North America and South America, respectively), and the Alps are found in Europe. Consequently, they do not impact east-west travel in Eastern North America, which further emphasizes the role of the Appalachian Mountains in this geographic context.