Eastern Georgia Interstate driving question

Question

We are driving from Nashville to Pawleys Island, SC next month. We will be driving on a Saturday each way.

Normally, I check the weather and either drive through Asheville or through Atlanta/Augusta, depending on conditions. There are only a few minutes difference. I usually drive home the other way so have a different drive. Both routes go through mountainous areas, which I enjoy.

Due to construction from the flood damage in NC, the Asheville route doesn't seem practical this summer. When I do a google maps search, it shows options to drive on I-20 through Augusta or using I-85 through NE Georgia to Greenville, SC with only a 10-15 minute difference. I have never been that way.

Does anyone have a suggestion on the I-85 option? Is it scenic and how does the traffic compare to I-20?

I would appreciate any advice.

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a great trip, and it’s wise to consider different routes based on weather and road conditions. Given your situation and your interest in the scenic nature of the drive, here are some thoughts on the I-85 route through NE Georgia to Greenville, SC compared to the I-20 route through Augusta:

The I-85 option offers a slightly different experience compared to the I-20 route, and there are a few factors to consider:

Scenic Value: The I-85 route does pass through more rolling hills and suburban landscapes as it heads through NE Georgia, particularly around areas like Hartwell and Greenville. While it's not as mountainous as the Asheville route, it’s still quite picturesque with a blend of open farmland and tree-lined stretches, particularly near the Georgia-South Carolina border. If you enjoy a less urban experience compared to the I-20 route, this could be a great option.
Traffic Considerations: I-85 can experience more congestion around the Atlanta metropolitan area, especially near the interchange with I-75 and I-285, but if you’re traveling on a Saturday, traffic should generally be lighter. After passing through Atlanta, the road tends to have less heavy traffic compared to I-20, where you can encounter slower-moving vehicles and potential delays closer to Augusta, especially around construction zones.
Scenic vs. Urban: If you're looking for a more rural and less built-up experience, I-85 through Georgia and SC offers some nice stretches of rural landscapes and small towns like Lavonia and Clemson. It’s a bit less urbanized compared to I-20, which runs through more significant cities like Augusta and Columbia. If you prefer less highway sprawl, I-85 may feel a bit more relaxed.
Distance and Time: As you noted, the difference in travel time is minimal (around 10-15 minutes), so it comes down to your personal preference for the type of drive. If you prefer a more scenic route with less highway traffic and fewer urban areas, the I-85 route might be worth the slight detour.
Road Conditions: Both I-20 and I-85 are well-maintained highways, but as you mentioned, I-20 might be impacted by construction delays in NC or areas around Augusta. I-85, on the other hand, while busy around Atlanta, offers a smoother ride through the smaller towns after passing the city. It’s a good idea to check for any major roadwork on both routes closer to your travel date for the latest info on conditions.

In conclusion, the I-85 route is scenic in its own way and offers less congestion compared to I-20, particularly outside of Atlanta. If you enjoy rolling hills and small-town charm, this route will give you a change of pace from your usual drive. While it’s not as mountainous as the Asheville route, it still offers a pleasant and manageable drive with minimal traffic once you pass the major metro areas.

Safe travels and enjoy the scenic drive to Pawleys Island!