The Drive from Columbia, SC to Columbia, MD: A Comparison of Routes and Drive Times

If you’re planning a road trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Columbia, Maryland, you might be wondering how long it will take to get there. The drive covers a distance of approximately 450 miles, so the time it takes will largely depend on the route you choose and the traffic patterns you encounter along the way. Let’s take a look at the different routes you can take and the estimated driving times for each.

Fastest Route: I-95 N

The fastest route from Columbia, SC to Columbia, MD is via I-95 N. This route covers a distance of about 450 miles and typically takes around 6-7 hours to drive, depending on traffic. During peak traffic times, such as rush hour, the drive time can increase to 7-9 hours. On the other hand, if you hit the road during off-peak hours, you might make the drive in just under 6 hours.

Scenic Route: US-301 N

If you prefer to take a more scenic route, you might consider driving on US-301 N. While this route adds a few extra miles to the trip, it offers beautiful views of the countryside. The drive on US-301 N typically takes around 7-8 hours, and during peak traffic times, the drive time can increase to 8-9 hours. However, if you drive during off-peak hours, you might still be able to make the trip in around 7 hours.

Slowest Route: US-17 N

For those who don’t mind taking the scenic route and have extra time to spare, US-17 N offers a leisurely drive through charming small towns and rural landscapes. This route covers a distance of approximately 470 miles and typically takes around 8-9 hours to drive. During peak traffic times, the drive time can increase to 9-10 hours, while during off-peak hours, you might make the drive in just under 8 hours.

Conclusion

In summary, the drive from Columbia, SC to Columbia, MD offers several route options with varying drive times. The fastest route, via I-95 N, takes around 6-7 hours to drive, while the scenic route on US-301 N takes about 7-8 hours. The slowest route, via US-17 N, takes around 8-9 hours. Keep in mind that these drive times are estimates and can vary based on traffic patterns and road conditions. Safe travels!