The Scenic Drive to the Heart of Texas: Austin to Kerrville

Welcome to the Lone Star State! If you're looking to get away from the bustling metropolis of Austin and soak up some of Texas' wildlife, Kerrville is the perfect destination. You may be wondering how long it takes to drive from Austin to Kerrville - well, it depends on your route and the traffic you encounter. Here are some pointers for your drive!

The Fastest Route

If you enjoy zipping down wide highways, the quickest way to get to Kerrville is by taking I-35 North to San Antonio, then transferring to I-10 West towards El Paso and going off at Exit 508. This route covers 99 miles and typically takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes using an average speed of 62 mph. Driving at a slower pace may tack on some extra minutes, but the smooth roads and scarcely-trafficked highways do not typically lead to delays.

The Scenic Drive

For those who desire a more scenic drive, taking Highway 290 West is a lovely option - this route passes through the awe-inspiring Texas Hill Country. The distance is 112 miles, extending your trip from approximately an hour and a half to just short of two hours. Even though this option is not quite as convenient as the main highway route, it is worth the extra time for the view and the tranquil drive - roads are mostly two-lane here and curves are sharp, so expect to slow down sometimes.

Traffic Concerns

Friday afternoons are when San Antonio commuters tend to be returning home, to watch out for traffic around 2-5 PM. You can expect a plenty of lively commuters and heavy traffic if you take the expressway route on a weekday morning, especially between 7-9 AM. Of course, it's all contingent on the time of day and day of the week - outside of peak hours, traffic should flow easily regardless of your route.

Conclusion

Austin to Kerrville is not a very long distance, but it helps to know which route to opt for. The fastest way to your destination is by taking I-35 and I-10 highways, which should take around 1 hour 30 minutes but may be more traffic-laden than some drivers desire. If you're not in a hurry and want to enhance your journey with an esthetic and peaceful drive, get on Highway 290 instead and be prepared for twists and turns in the land of cowboys. Regardless of what route you pick, safe travels and a great journey!