Taking a Road Trip from Cary, NC, to Memphis, TN

Are you planning a road trip from Cary, North Carolina, to Memphis, Tennessee? Depending on which route you take, the drive can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours. To help you plan your trip, we've put together a guide that breaks down the driving time for each route.

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Cary, NC, to Memphis, TN, is via I-40 W. The distance is approximately 640 miles, which should take you around 8 hours and 15 minutes without traffic. However, if you're planning to travel during peak traffic hours, you can expect to add around 30-45 minutes to your travel time.

Scenic Route

If you want to soak up the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, you can take a scenic route that will add approximately 90 minutes to your travel time. Starting from Cary, you would take I-40 W and exit at Asheville, NC, and continue on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The parkway connects to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and eventually to I-40. This route is approximately 735 miles, and you can expect around 10 hours of driving time.

Slowest Route

If you want to avoid highways and take a slower route that allows you to explore small towns and scenic routes, you can take a route that follows US-64. This route is approximately 805 miles, and you can expect around 12 hours of driving time. However, this route also provides scenic views of forests, lakes, and mountains, making it a beautiful drive.

Best Time To Travel

If you want to avoid peak traffic, the best time to travel is usually in the early morning or late evening when fewer people are on the road. Rush hour traffic can be particularly bad in larger cities such as Nashville and Memphis.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose to take from Cary, NC, to Memphis, TN, it's important to plan for few stops along the way, get enough rest, and stay hydrated. Remember to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave, and allow time for unexpected delays. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, a road trip can be a great way to explore new places and make lasting memories.