Best route information
From St Charles Missouri to Beaufort South Carolina
Driving from St. Charles, Missouri to Beaufort, South Carolina covers roughly 900-1,000 miles depending on your route choice, and the drive typically takes about 14-16 hours without extended stops. There are a few main options depending on whether you prioritize speed, scenic routes, or avoiding tolls.
Here are some detailed route options:
- Primary route (fastest, mostly interstate):
- Take I-64 East from St. Charles toward St. Louis.
- Merge onto I-55 South toward Memphis, Tennessee.
- In Memphis, take I-40 East briefly, then connect to I-26 East toward Charleston, South Carolina.
- Near Charleston, take US-17 South along the coast to reach Beaufort.
- Alternative route (less traffic, more scenic through Tennessee/North Carolina):
- Take I-70 East from St. Charles to connect with I-64 East toward Louisville, Kentucky.
- From Louisville, take I-65 South toward Nashville, then I-24 East to Chattanooga.
- Connect to I-75 South briefly, then take I-26 East into South Carolina.
- Exit onto US-17 South for the final leg to Beaufort.
- Considerations for stops and safety:
- Plan for overnight rest if you want a safer, less exhausting trip.
- Major cities along the route with lodging and dining options include Memphis, Nashville, and Charleston.
- Keep in mind potential traffic around major metro areas like St. Louis, Memphis, and Charleston, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Additional tips:
- Check real-time traffic and construction updates before departure to adjust your route accordingly.
- Consider fuel stops and meal breaks; many interstate rest areas are well-equipped, but local exits may provide better dining options.
- If you prefer scenic byways, especially in Tennessee and North Carolina, you could detour slightly to enjoy foothills or river valleys, but this will add travel time.
Overall, the I-64/I-55/I-26 corridor with US-17 South at the end is generally the fastest and most straightforward route for this long-distance drive.
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