Driving from Asheville, NC to Tega Cay, SC: A Guide to Route Options and Drive Times

Are you planning a road trip from Asheville, North Carolina to Tega Cay, South Carolina? While the two towns are only about 120 miles apart, the time it takes to drive there can vary depending on which route you take and the traffic patterns. In this blog post, we'll break down the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each, and the estimated driving time for both peak and low traffic times.

Fastest Route:

If you're looking for the quickest route from Asheville to Tega Cay, your best bet is the I-26 E to I-85 S. This route takes you through major cities like Spartanburg and Greenville, so you'll want to keep in mind that traffic may be heavier during peak hours. The total distance of this route is about 117 miles, and it can take between 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours in normal traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, such as rush hour, expect an additional 30 minutes to an hour on your total drive time. If you're going during low traffic times, such as early morning or late at night, you can shave some time off your expected arrival.

Scenic Route:

While the fastest route is great for getting to your destination quickly, if you're looking for a scenic drive, we recommend taking the US-276 S to SC-11 S. This route takes you through the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains and past parks like the Pisgah National Forest. However, keep in mind that this route is much slower due to winding roads and the potential for traffic in popular recreation areas. The total distance of this route is about 113 miles and can take between 3 to 4 hours in normal traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, the time may increase further due to the large number of tourists on the roads in these areas.

Alternative Route:

If you're looking for a route that combines the speed of the I-26 with some additional scenery, we recommend taking a detour through the Tryon Foothills. You can accomplish this by taking the US-74 E exit as you pass the town of Columbus, North Carolina. This route takes you through rolling hills and past small towns like Landrum, South Carolina. The total distance of this route is about 119 miles and can take between 2 to 2.5 hours in normal traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, expect an additional 30 minutes to an hour on your drive time.

Overall, the time it takes to drive from Asheville to Tega Cay will depend on the route you choose and the time of day you're traveling. If you're in a hurry, your best bet is the I-26 E to I-85 S, while those looking for a scenic drive might prefer the US-276 S to SC-11 S. No matter which route you choose, take your time and enjoy the beauty of the Carolinas on your journey.