The Best Routes from Columbia, SC to Cary, NC

If you’re planning a road trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Cary, North Carolina, you’re probably wondering how long the drive will take. Luckily, I’ve got all the information you need to make the best decision for your journey. With a few different route options and varying traffic patterns, there are a few key factors to consider when planning your drive.

Fastest Route: If you’re in a hurry to get to Cary, the fastest route would be taking I-77 N to I-85 N in Charlotte, then onto I-40 E to Cary. This route covers a distance of approximately 220 miles and takes around 3 hours in normal traffic conditions. Keep in mind that traffic can add significant time to your journey, especially during peak hours.

Slowest Route: If you’re looking to take a more scenic route, you might consider taking US-321 N through Winnsboro and Chester, then onto I-85 N in Gastonia, and finally onto I-40 E to Cary. This route covers a distance of approximately 240 miles and takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic.

During peak traffic times, such as weekday rush hours, it may take closer to 4.5-5 hours to make the drive, particularly on the slower route. On the other hand, if you can avoid peak traffic, the drive could be as quick as 3-3.5 hours.

If you’re not in a hurry and are looking to enjoy a more leisurely drive, taking the slower route might be worth it for the change of scenery and potentially less traffic. However, if time is of the essence, sticking to the fastest route is your best bet.

Now that you have all the information, you can plan your drive from Columbia to Cary with confidence. Safe travels!