Road Tripping: Exploring the Route from Carthage, NC to Red Hill, SC

Looking to hit the open road and explore the drive from Carthage, NC to Red Hill, SC? We've got you covered. Whether you're after scenic routes, the shortest possible drive, or the most direct path, below are our top suggestions. So pack your bags, crank up the tunes, and let's get going!

The I-85 Route

If you're looking for the fastest route between Carthage and Red Hill, taking I-85 is your best bet. The distance between the two towns is around 160 miles and should take you just under three hours to complete. Get on I-85 South in Haw River and take exit 39B to merge onto US-221 S. From there, it's a straight shot all the way down past Greenville until you reach Red Hill.

Due to the relatively long driving time, we recommend breaking up your journey with stops at some of the small towns along the way. For example, Durham boasts plenty of great eateries and is home to Duke University. If you're traveling with kids, perhaps a visit to the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro or the Lego Store in Concord would be a welcome distraction. Whatever your interests, there's something for everyone along the I-85 route.

The Scenic Route

For travelers who prioritize the journey over the destination, taking a more roundabout, scenic route might be the perfect way to experience the beauty of North and South Carolina. Starting in Carthage, take Route 24 East to Jacksonville. From there, head south on Route 17 towards Wilmington. Driving through this town is an experience in and of itself, as you'll find plenty of historic landmarks and restaurants to explore.

Continuing down Route 17 past Wilmington, you'll find yourself driving through the lush greenery of the Francis Marion National Forest. Stop off to stretch your legs at the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge before hopping back on the road down Route 701. After 5 miles, merge onto US-501 South towards Conway. From there, it's a straight shot down Route 378 to Red Hill.

Of course, since this route is much longer than the I-85 route, you'll likely want to spend the night in one of the towns along the way. Wilmington in particular boasts plenty of waterfront hotels and resorts, so feel free to treat yourself to a beachfront cocktail or two.

The Coastal Route

If you're looking to delve deeper into the Carolinas coastal culture, consider taking Route 1 from Carthage all the way down to Charleston. This route is also known as the "Blue Star Memorial Highway" and is a full 300 miles long, with plenty of opportunities to soak in Southern charm and hospitality along the way. The drive should take around 6 and a half hours.

From Charleston, take Route 17 South to the Green Swamp Preserve, then travel down Route 41 towards Hemingway. From there, it's just a few miles down Route 261 to Red Hill. All in all, this route takes a while - but the drive is well worth it in terms of sights, sounds, and quirks.

Which Route Will You Choose?

From scenic drives to the straight and narrow, there are plenty of different routes you can take to travel from Carthage, NC to Red Hill, SC. Whether your goal is to get there as quickly as possible or to experience a full-on coastal adventure, there's a trip for every traveler. So go ahead, take the wheel, and hit the road - your adventure awaits!