How Long Does it Take to Drive from Asheville, North Carolina to Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi?
Are you planning a road trip from Asheville to Bay Saint Louis and wondering how long it will take? Well, the answer is not straightforward as it depends on several factors such as your route, traffic conditions, and stops along the way. In this blog post, we will explore different routes, their distances, and the estimated driving times, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Route Options
When driving from Asheville to Bay Saint Louis, there are a few different routes you can take. The most direct route is I-40 W and I-55 S, which is roughly 790 miles and takes around 12 hours without stops. However, this route can get congested in some areas, especially in Memphis, which could significantly increase your trip time.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more scenic drive, you can take a longer route that goes through the Great Smoky Mountains and the National Forests of Tennessee and Mississippi. This route is approximately 880 miles and could take up to 14 hours depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.
Driving Times
To estimate your travel time, you'll need to consider the type of route you choose, the distance, and what time of day you'll be driving. Typically, driving during off-peak hours such as early mornings or late evenings can save you time. Therefore, let's take a look at estimated driving times for both peak and low traffic periods.
- Direct Route via I-40 W and I-55 S
Peak Traffic: Estimated for 14 hours (including stops) Low Traffic: Estimated for 10 hours (including stops)
- Scenic Route via Great Smoky Mountains
Peak Traffic: Estimated for 16 hours (including stops) Low Traffic: Estimated for 12 hours (including stops)
Bear in mind that these are only approximated times, and you'll need to account for extra time for stops, food, and bathroom breaks along the way.
Conclusion
Driving from Asheville to Bay Saint Louis can be a fantastic adventure, but it's essential to plan your trip carefully. Whether you choose to take the direct route or the scenic route, know the estimated times and possible traffic and weather situations. These can affect your travel time, and you certainly don't want to miss out on those fantastic Gulf Coast beaches. Safe travels!