Driving Time between Asheville, North Carolina and Denver, Colorado

A picture depicting driving

Road Trip: Asheville, North Carolina to Denver, Colorado

If you're up for an adventure, a road trip from Asheville, North Carolina to Denver, Colorado is perfect for you! But, before you plan your itinerary and pack your bags, it's important to know how long the trip will take. Depending on the route you take, there are several different travel times to consider.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest and most direct route will take you about 22 hours of driving time covering a distance of approximately 1,560 miles. The fastest route starts on I-40 West, then take I-26 West, and continue onto I-81 South, before merging with I-70 West that will take you straight to Denver.

If you prefer to take a more scenic route, then the slowest, but most enjoyable, is to mix a bit of I-40 with old Route 66 and I-44 that pass through some of the historic cities in the area. While it's longer, at around 29 hours of driving time, totaling around 1,870 miles, it gives you the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, St. Louis' Gateway Arch, and the iconic Cadillac Ranch in Texas.

Drive Time Based on Traffic Patterns

Driving times vary, especially according to traffic patterns. During peak traffic times like holidays and weekends, the trip can take longer, but during the week, when there is less congestion, you can cruise through your travels seamlessly. It is important to consider traffic patterns when planning your trip.

Here's an estimated driving time for peak and low traffic times based on the fastest route:

  • Peak traffic time: 24 hours
  • Low traffic time: 21 hours

And here's an estimated driving time for peak and low traffic times based on the slowest route:

  • Peak traffic time: 32 hours
  • Low traffic time: 27 hours

Final Thoughts

Your road trip from Asheville, North Carolina to Denver, Colorado can be a memorable adventure, no matter which route you take. If you're interested in a fast and direct route, the fastest route is the one for you, whereas if you're open to a slower scenic route, the slowest route will allow you to see amazing sights. Remember to consider traffic patterns before you hit the road.

Happy travels and stay safe on your adventure!