Driving from Bedford, Virginia to Elizabethton, Tennessee: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Bedford, Virginia to Elizabethton, Tennessee? It’s an adventurous and scenic route that will take you from one state to another. But, have you considered how long it will take to drive from Bedford to Elizabethton, depending on the route you take and traffic patterns? Don't worry, we've got you covered!

The Route and Distance

There are several routes you can take from Bedford, Virginia to Elizabethton, Tennessee, but the most direct one is via US-460 W and I-81 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 138 miles.

Fastest VS Slowest

Driving along US-460 W is the fastest route, with a time of about 2 hours and 20 minutes driving time under regular traffic conditions. However, traffic can add additional time to the drive. Driving via I-81 S is the longest route that will take you around 3 hours of drive time to reach your destination, but it’s more scenic, taking you through the southern portions of the Shenandoah Valley along the way.

Traffic Patterns and Driving Time

If you’re driving during peak traffic times, you can expect the travel time to go up significantly especially on I-81 South. This means that your estimated travel time will not remain consistent. During peak traffic hours, it could add potentially another hour of travel time. However, if you’re driving during “off-peak” travel times, your travel time will decrease. Choosing to travel at off-peak times, instead of rush hour or weekends, could result in savings of around 20-30 minutes a trip.

Conclusion

When planning your trip from Bedford, Virginia to Elizabethton, Tennessee, keep in mind that the fastest route via US-460 offers the shortest travel time of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes but may increase during peak traffic hours. If you’re in the mood to take an enjoyable scenic drive with more time on your hands, taking I-81 might be the way to go. It may take up to 3 hours drive time, and you won’t be able to make Apple Hills Farm your first stop quickly. Remember, traveling during off-peak times can help you get to your destination quicker. Whatever choice you make, make sure to enjoy the scenery and your road trip!