Road Trip from Cary, North Carolina to Seattle, Washington
Looking for an exciting new road trip adventure? One option is to travel from Cary, North Carolina, all the way across the country to Seattle, Washington. This journey covers over 2,800 miles and is packed with breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and plenty of exciting things to do along the way.
So, how long will it take to make this epic journey? The answer depends on a few different factors, such as the route you choose and the time of day you're driving. Read on for a breakdown of some of the most popular routes and what you can expect in terms of travel time.
Route Options
The first decision you'll need to make is which route to take. Some of the most common include:
- I-70 West to I-15 North: This route takes you from Cary to Denver, Colorado, before heading north on I-15 and eventually connecting with I-90 in Montana. From there, it's a straight shot west to Seattle.
- I-40 West to I-44 West to I-35 North: This route takes you through Nashville, Memphis, and Oklahoma City before heading north on I-35 toward Kansas. From there, you'll take I-29 to I-90 and ultimately arrive in Seattle.
- I-95 North to I-26 West to I-40 West: This path takes you up the East Coast from North Carolina to Knoxville, Tennessee, before heading west on I-40. You'll pass through Nashville and St. Louis before connecting with I-70 and I-15 (the same route as the first option).
Drive Times
Once you've decided on a route, it's important to consider travel times. Here are some estimates for how long you can expect each leg of the journey to take:
| Route | Distance | Driving Time (Low Traffic) | Driving Time (Peak Traffic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-70 West to I-15 North | 2,845 miles | 42 hours | 53 hours |
| I-40 West to I-44 West to I-35 North | 2,880 miles | 43 hours | 53 hours |
| I-95 North to I-26 West to I-40 West | 2,900 miles | 43 hours | 54 hours |
Keep in mind that these are estimates and your actual drive time may vary based on factors like weather, construction, and traffic conditions.
Fastest and Slowest Options
If speed is your top priority, the I-70 to I-15 route is likely your best bet. With a distance of just over 2,800 miles and a travel time of 42 hours in low traffic conditions, it's the quickest way to get from Cary to Seattle.
On the other hand, if you're looking to take your time and enjoy the journey, the I-95/I-26/I-40 route may be a better choice. It's slightly longer at 2,900 miles, but it takes you through some of America's most iconic cities and landmarks, like Washington D.C., Nashville, and the Grand Canyon.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose or how long it takes you to get there, a road trip from Cary to Seattle is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. With so much to see and do along the way, you might even find that the journey is just as exciting as the destination itself. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an incredible cross-country journey!