The Long Haul: Driving from Albuquerque, NM to West Columbia, SC

If you're planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to West Columbia, South Carolina, you might be curious about how long it will take to get there. The distance between the two cities is around 1,450 miles, so it's not a trip to be taken lightly. Here's what you need to know about the different routes available to you, how long each one takes, and which one might be best for your needs.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Albuquerque to West Columbia is to take I-40 E and I-81 S. This route covers a distance of 1,470 miles and takes approximately 23 hours without any breaks. Of course, your actual drive time may vary depending on traffic patterns, rest stops, and other factors. In heavy traffic, you can expect your travel time to increase by 1-2 hours.

The Slowest Route

If you're not in a rush and want to take in the scenery, you can take a more southerly route that will take you through Texas. This route involves taking I-40 E, then heading south on I-35 through Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, before taking I-10 E to Houston, and then heading north on I-45 to reach West Columbia. This route covers a distance of around 1,700 miles and takes approximately 28 hours without any breaks. This route can be pleasant if you have the extra time to spare.

The Medium Route

A third option is to mix things up a bit. You can take I-40 E to Little Rock, Arkansas, then turn south on I-30 E to Texarkana, before heading east on I-20 E to Shreveport, Louisiana, then east on I-49 N to Monroe, LA, before taking I-20 E to Atlanta, GA. Finally, you can head southeast on I-77 S to reach West Columbia. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,610 miles and will take around 25 hours without any breaks. However, this route has the advantage of allowing you to stop off at several different cities along the way if you prefer to break up your journey.

Conclusion

All in all, choosing the right route depends on your priorities. If you want to reach West Columbia as quickly as possible, the shortest route along I-40 and I-81 is your best bet. If you have more time to spare and want to see some sights along the way, the southern I-40 to I-35 route can be a nice change of pace. Finally, if you want to experience a few different cities along the way, the route through Little Rock, Shreveport, and Atlanta may be the best option for you. Regardless of which you choose, be sure to pay attention to traffic patterns and adjust your travel plans accordingly!