Road Trip from Augusta to Columbus: Fastest and Slowest Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Augusta, Georgia to Columbus, Ohio? If you are, you might be wondering what's the fastest and slowest routes to take and how long it will take to get there.

Before you head out, consider the following options and factors that affect travel time.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get to Columbus from Augusta is by taking I-20 W and I-77 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 650 miles and takes around 10-11 hours to drive nonstop.

However, keep in mind that travel time could be affected by traffic flow, roadwork, and tolls. If you want to avoid tolls, we recommend taking I-85 N and I-77 N instead. This will add about 40 minutes to your trip, but it's worth considering if you're on a tight budget.

The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and want to enjoy the scenery, you can take an alternate route that takes you through the Appalachian Mountains. Start by taking I-85 N to Greenville, then take US-25 N to Asheville, North Carolina. From there, you can take I-40 W to Knoxville, Tennessee. Once you reach Knoxville, take I-75 N past Cincinnati, Ohio, and finally, take I-71 N to Columbus.

This option will add about 100 miles to your trip, and the travel time will be around 12-14 hours due to winding mountain roads. However, you'll get to enjoy some fantastic views of the fall foliage if you plan your trip in the autumn months.

Peak Time vs. Low Traffic Time

If you want to make the most of your drive time, consider leaving early in the morning when the roads are less congested. Peak traffic hours are typically between 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM, so schedule your trip accordingly.

Assuming light traffic conditions, the fastest route can be driven in around 10 hours and 30 minutes when driving on the fastest route. But during rush hour, travel time might stretch to twelve hours.

In conclusion, whichever route you choose to take, the journey from Augusta to Columbus will be an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of the east coast while having a memorable time on the road. It may be a long drive, but it can be rewarding to take the scenic route or avoid heavy traffic by planning your trip well. Safe travels!