Road-Tripping from Anderson to Asheville: How Much Time Will it Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Anderson, South Carolina to Asheville, North Carolina? No matter if it's a weekend getaway or just an escape from the daily routine, knowing the estimated time of travel can help you prepare better and avoid delays. This blog post will provide you with detailed information on the fastest and slowest routes, the distance, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The most direct route would be via Interstate-85 North and Interstate-26 West. It's 129 miles and typically takes around 2 hours of driving time. This route is known to be the fastest and straightforward. You'll enjoy driving through scenic mountains, and the route is full of rest areas and gasoline stations that will help in stretching your legs and refueling.

There's also an alternative scenic route which is slightly longer and slower. The second route is via US-76, US-178, SC-11, and US-25 N. This route extends for 146 miles and takes around 3-4 hours of driving time. Though it's longer, people opt for this route for the scenic beauty and the enjoyable drive through the pristine countryside. The roadway is a bit narrow and winding so it's best to avoid it when you're in a hurry.

Distance and Time Based on Traffic Patterns

For the fastest route via Interstate-85 and Interstate-26, the distance is about 129 miles and takes around 2 hours of driving time. During peak traffic hours and on busy weekends, the time can stretch up to 3-4 hours. On weekdays and non-peak hours, you can comfortably make the trip in 2 hours. If you're planning to travel on Interstate-85, it's best to avoid peak hours and rush hour, which is typically from 4 pm to 7 pm.

For the scenic route via US-76, US-178, SC-11, and US-25 N, the distance is around 146 miles and takes 3-4 hours of driving time. This route is a bit slow because of the winding roadways and narrow lanes. During peak traffic hours, the time can stretch up to 4 or 5 hours. On weekdays and non-peak hours, you can expect to finish your trip in around 3 hours.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Anderson, South Carolina to Asheville, North Carolina can be an enjoyable experience. The above mentioned two routes have their own pros and cons. It's up to you to choose the route based on time, traffic, scenic beauty, and your priorities. If you're traveling during peak hours, it's suggested to opt for the fastest route. On the other hand, if you're not in a hurry and want to enjoy scenic beauty, then the slower route is for you. Plan ahead, avoid peak traffic hours, take frequent breaks, and enjoy the beautiful journey.