Route Options: Carlock, IL to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, GA

If you're planning a road trip from Carlock, Illinois, to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia, you're in for a scenic drive! Do you know how long it will take to travel between these two cities? Below, we've broken down the different driving routes and how long you can expect to spend on the road.

Fastest Route: I-55 and I-75

The fastest route to travel from Carlock to Athens-Clarke County is by taking I-55 south, then merging onto I-75 towards Atlanta. It's a total distance of approximately 800 miles, with the majority of the drive on major interstate highways. If you drive non-stop, it will take you around 12-13 hours depending on traffic.

Shortest Route: I-65 and I-85

If you're looking for the shortest route, you can take I-65 and I-85 south towards Atlanta. This drive is around 700 miles and will take you approximately 11-12 hours, depending on traffic. Although it's a shorter distance, it might not necessarily be the fastest route due to the highways being smaller and traffic congestion during peak hours.

Scenic Route: Blue Ridge Parkway

If you're not in a hurry, a more scenic route to take would be the Blue Ridge Parkway. Starting in Virginia, the parkway winds its way through the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee before intersecting with I-85 in Georgia. The parkway is a two-lane road, so it will likely take longer than the other options, but the breathtaking views make it worthwhile. The total distance is around 900 miles, and driving the entire parkway can take several days.

Traffic Considerations

It's essential to consider traffic when planning your trip, especially if you're traveling during peak hours. If you're heading south towards Atlanta, expect heavy traffic around the city. Rush hour traffic can add another hour or two to the drive, so plan accordingly. The best times to travel are early in the morning or in the late evening, when most people are off the roads.

Final Thoughts

There are several routes you can take when driving from Carlock, Illinois, to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia. The fastest route is I-55 and I-75, taking around 12-13 hours, but expect heavy traffic around the city. The shortest route is I-65 and I-85, which is around 700 miles and takes 11-12 hours. If you're not in a hurry and want to enjoy a scenic drive, take the Blue Ridge Parkway, which spans approximately 900 miles. Regardless of the route you choose, avoid rush hour traffic, and enjoy the journey!