How Long Does It Take To Drive From Bowie, Maryland to Clarksville, Tennessee?

Have you been planning a road trip from Bowie, Maryland to Clarksville, Tennessee? Perhaps you’re a traveler, or just moving to a new state. Either way, there are a few factors you should consider before hitting the road. Distance, traffic patterns, and route options all factor into how long this drive may take you.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The distance from Bowie to Clarksville measures about 670 miles. The fastest and most direct route follows I-64 W and I-65 S, and will take you about 10 hours and 30 minutes to drive. This route is the most common and the one recommended by Google Maps.

If you prefer to take a slower, more scenic option, you can take US-17 S and I-40 W. This route will add about 50 miles to your trip, taking 12 hours and 15 minutes to drive. Keep in mind that this route will have stretches of two-lane highways, where you will have to yield to slower-moving vehicles.

Traffic Patterns

Both routes can be affected by traffic. However, if you time your trip right, you can minimize delays. Rush hour congestion around major cities like Louisville, Nashville and Memphis can cause significant delays, so it's always best to plan accordingly.

Driving times during peak traffic periods can be longer than those during low-traffic times. To give you an example, during rush hour, which is usually 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m., the same 10-hour, 30-minutes journey can add an extra hour or two.

Route Differences

By taking the I-64 W and I-65 S route, you’ll be driving through scenic Bluegrass country, including Lexington, Kentucky. However, as you approach Louisville and Nashville, the highway can get busy with heavy traffic, so be prepared for delays.

The US-17 S and I-40 W route will take you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so you’ll get breathtaking views of the Appalachians. But it will take you longer and involves more turns and stops — including Richmond, Virginia, Knoxville, Tennessee, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, that could add up to your journey's total driving time.

Conclusion

The best route and driving time from Bowie, Maryland, to Clarksville, Tennessee, really depends on your preferences, time, and preferred route. A direct route is often the best option when factoring in time. Still, some drivers may prefer a slower, more scenic drive along smaller roads, even if that means adding time to the trip. However, it's best to avoid travel during peak traffic times for both routes, so plan accordingly.