How Long Does it Take to Get from Bristol, Virginia to Shelby, North Carolina?

Have you ever wondered how much time it would take to get from Bristol, Virginia to Shelby, North Carolina? Regardless of whether you are making a long journey or just going on a quick trip, there are a few different routes you can take. So, let's dive into the specifics of each route and the time it takes to get there based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to arrive in Shelby quickly, the quickest route from Bristol to Shelby is by taking I-81 S and I-77 S, with a distance of roughly 137 miles and an estimated travel time of two hours and 20 minutes under low traffic. During peak times, it could take up to three hours. This route ensures you will arrive at your destination as quickly and safely as possible.

The Scenic Route

If you are up for a more leisurely and scenic drive, you should take the byways and avoid the interstates. Starting in Bristol, head down US-421 South, which will take you through small towns and an array of beautiful sights. The distance of this route is about 150 miles and should take around four hours and 15 minutes under low traffic. Since this is an alternative route, peak traffic patterns might not apply; however, since this route goes through small towns, there could potentially be heavy traffic during rush hours, which would increase the travel time.

The Quickest Shortcut

To reach your destination in a shorter amount of time, you can take I-81 S and then head towards US-11E S towards Johnson City, then take I-26 E. After that, take US-74 E/US-19 E to Shelby. Even though this route is less scenic than the previously mentioned alternative way, it's still a quick shortcut, with an estimated distance of 146 miles and about two hours and 45 minutes of travel time under low traffic. Again, be mindful of peak traffic times, as that could add extra travel time to your journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the time it takes to travel from Bristol to Shelby, North Carolina, varies based on traffic patterns and what route you choose to take. The fastest route can get you there in about two hours and first offers the most safety; the scenic route will take its time showing you the beauty of small towns and thrilling landscapes, and the shortcut route makes the journey considerably shorter but is slightly less scenic than the alternative ways. No matter which route you take, make sure to check for accidents and traffic patterns before getting on the road, at any time of the day.