Road Trip Tips: Travel Time between Columbus, Ohio and Nags Head, North Carolina

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Columbus, Ohio and head down to the beautiful beaches of Nags Head, North Carolina, you may be wondering about the best route to take and how long it will take to get there. Luckily, there are a few different options for your road trip, each offering its own unique sights and experiences along the way.

Route 1: The I-77 and I-64 Route

If you're looking for the fastest route, you can take I-77 S and I-64 E, which is approximately 590 miles and takes about 9.5 hours to drive. This route will take you through the scenic mountains of West Virginia and into Virginia before connecting to the I-64, which will lead you straight into Nags Head. Along the way, you can make a pit stop at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia for some breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

Route 2: The I-71 and I-64 Route

Another option is to take I-71 S and I-64 E, which is approximately 665 miles and takes about 10.5 hours to drive. This route will take you through Kentucky and into West Virginia before connecting to the I-64. Along the way, you can make a detour to visit the Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the world's longest known cave system.

Route 3: The Scenic Route through the Appalachian Mountains

If you're in the mood for a more scenic drive, you can take US-23 S through the Appalachian Mountains and connect to I-77 S before joining I-64 E. This route is approximately 650 miles and takes about 11 hours to drive. Along this route, you can visit the Breaks Interstate Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the South," for some stunning views and outdoor activities.

Route 4: Alternate Scenic Route through the Shenandoah Valley

For a different scenic option, you can take I-70 E and I-77 S, passing through the Shenandoah Valley and connecting to I-64 E. This route is approximately 700 miles and takes about 11.5 hours to drive. Along this route, you can visit the Shenandoah National Park for some hiking and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

No matter which route you choose, you'll have the opportunity to make some memorable pit stops along the way. Be sure to plan your road trip ahead of time to make the most of your journey to Nags Head, North Carolina. Happy travels!