Driving Time between Beckley, West Virginia and Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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Road Trip! Here's How Long it Takes to Drive from Beckley, WV to Fort Lauderdale, FL

Heading down to sunny Florida from West Virginia is always a fun adventure. Whether it’s for a family vacation, a warm winter getaway, or a road trip with friends- there’s always excitement along the way. However, figuring out how long it will take to reach your destination can be a bit overwhelming. In this blog post, we have broken down the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the approximate driving times based on traffic patterns.

Fastest & Shortest Route

If you’re looking for the quickest way to get to Fort Lauderdale from Beckley, then your best bet is to take the I-77 S and the I-95 S. This trip is approximately 900 miles long, and takes approximately 14 hours to drive without any rest stops, traffic jams or detours. However, keep in mind that driving non-stop is dangerous, and it is recommended that you take breaks every few hours to rest and stretch your legs.

Scenic Route

If you’re not in a hurry and would prefer to enjoy the scenic views, then you can opt to take the I-81S, for an added 100 miles, and drive along the Blue Ridge Mountains. This route is approximately 1,000 miles long, and takes approximately 16 hours to drive without stops. This added drive time will be worth it, as you’ll get to enjoy the natural beauty of Virginia's countryside.

Time of Day Matters

The time of day you decide to hit the road will also play a huge role in your driving time. Rush hour traffic in busy areas such as Washington D.C. and Miami can add an extra few hours to your journey, so planning ahead is important. If you are able, try leaving very early in the morning (4-5 a.m.) or late at night (10-11 p.m.), as this is when there are the fewest cars on the road.

Here are the approximate driving times during peak and non-peak hours:

  • Fastest Route (I-77 S and the I-95 S):

    • Peak Traffic: 16-18 hours
    • Non-Peak Traffic: 12-14 hours

  • Scenic Route (I-81S):

    • Peak Traffic: 18-20 hours
    • Non-Peak Hours: 14-16 hours

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Beckley, West Virginia to Fort Lauderdale, Florida can range from 12 to 20 hours, depending on the route and traffic. Whether you opt for the quickest or scenic route, planning ahead and taking breaks along the way will make your journey more enjoyable and stress-free. Happy travels!