The Time It Takes To Drive From Asheville, North Carolina to Mount Holly, North Carolina
If you're planning a trip from Asheville to Mount Holly, North Carolina, you're in for a scenic treat. But before you hit the road, you need to know how long it will take to get there. Traffic patterns and route choices are two major factors in calculating drive time, so let's take a look at the fastest and slowest routes to get to Mount Holly.
Fastest and slowest routes
The fastest route from Asheville to Mount Holly is via I-26 E and I-85 S. This highway drive is 145 miles long and takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. It's a direct route with less congestion and construction. However, be prepared for tolls on the turnpike.
The slowest route is via US-74 E and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Although it is only 16 miles longer, it is substantially slower. The highway is busy during rush hour and has several stops and traffic signals along the way.
Drive time based on traffic patterns
Peak traffic times can affect the drive time significantly, especially on the slow routes. Rush hour starts around 7 am and goes on until 9 am and starts again around 4 pm and lasts until 6:30 pm. During these times, expect an extra half hour on the slow route, while the fast route will be delayed by 10-15 minutes.
Low traffic times are the best time to drive, especially if you're on a tight schedule. The best time to drive is Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm and after 7 pm. During these hours, the slow route will take around 3 hours while the fast route will take you 2 hours.
Conclusion
Now that you know the driving times for different routes at peak traffic times and low traffic times, you can plan accordingly. If you're in a rush or don't want to sit in traffic, take the fast route and consider adding tolls to your budget. If you have enough time, take the scenic route, enjoy the stops along the way, and appreciate the beautiful view. Safe travels!