Road Trip! How Long Does It Take to Drive from Austin, Texas to Mooresville, North Carolina?

If you’re planning a road trip from Austin, Texas to Mooresville, North Carolina, there are options to consider for your journey. Let’s take a look at the best routes and the estimated time it takes to drive there.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Austin to Mooresville is to drive on I-40 East. This route will take you through Arkansas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Covering a distance of 1,168 miles, it should typically take around 17 hours of driving time.

But remember, that’s just an estimate based on average driving conditions and non-peak hours. Traffic conditions can impact your time, and as always, it's best to check your GPS or maps app for updates before leaving.

The Slowest Route

The slower but more scenic route takes you roughly 1,300 miles and should take around 21 hours. Although it may take longer than I-40, this route offers beautiful views of Missouri, Kentucky, Virginia, and more of North Carolina.

Starting from Austin, you’ll drive northeast to St. Louis, Missouri, before taking the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains in Appalachia. This route provides an incredible drive through undulating terrain and historic landmarks in the East Coast.

Best Route with Low Traffic

If you want to avoid traffic, there are multiple ways to get to Mooresville without fighting the traffic. For instance, you can take I-20 east from Austin before connecting with I-85 which is less congested than other interstate highways.

This route is about 1,248 miles long and will take around 18 hours, including stops for breaks and meals.

Best Route during Peak Hours

The best route for peak hours is a direct route that runs along I-40 East through Little Rock, Nashville, and Knoxville. It's recommended that you leave Austin as early as possible during peak hours, especially considering heavy traffic zones in metropolitan areas.

This route is the shortest option and covers a distance of 1,168 miles. Even during peak hours, it will take about 17 hours to complete.

Conclusion

Overall, the best route to take from Austin, Texas, to Mooresville, North Carolina, ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Whether it’s a short direct journey or a scenic drive through the countryside, you will need to make your selection to suit your needs.

But regardless of which route you take, be sure to prepare accordingly and check traffic updates before hitting the road. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and stay safe on your journey!