Road Trippin': From Abingdon to Asheville
Are you planning a road trip from Abingdon, Virginia to Asheville, North Carolina? Whether you're heading to the Blue Ridge Parkway for some hiking, or visiting Asheville's famed breweries and restaurants, you'll want to plan your trip accordingly. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the estimated driving times for both low and high traffic times.
Fastest Routes
If you're looking for a faster route, you'll want to take Interstate 81 South to Interstate 40 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 150 miles and takes just over two and a half hours without traffic. At peak times, this route can take between three and four hours, so we recommend avoiding rush hour if possible.
Another faster route is to take US-58 West to I-77 South. From there, take I-40 West into Asheville. While this route is slightly longer at 200 miles, it is a great option if you want to avoid major highways or if you have some extra time to enjoy the scenery. Without traffic, it takes around three and a half hours to drive this route, while at peak times, it could take up to five hours.
Slowest Routes
The slowest route would be to take the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The distance from Abingdon to Asheville via the Blue Ridge Parkway is approximately 250 miles. It takes close to 7 hours to reach Asheville without any stops. However, if you're looking for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, this route will surely not disappoint you. Summertime and fall foliage season bring big crowds to the Parkway, so be sure to factor in some extra time if you’re driving it during these times.
Traffic Considerations
The commute time can vary greatly depending on traffic. If you’re looking to avoid the heavier traffic, we recommend departing early in the morning or later in the evening. For I-81 and I-40, the heaviest traffic is during commuter rush hours, so plan accordingly.
During peak travel seasons, like holidays, festivals, and weekends, traffic can get very heavy on all routes. Blue Ridge Parkway even closes down some sections during winter months and any heavier snow periods.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve explored the different routes between Abingdon, Virginia, and Asheville, North Carolina, it's important to remember that while a faster route may get you to your destination sooner, a slower route may offer better scenery and attractions. Whatever route you choose, plan accordingly and enjoy the ride.