The Great Austin to Memphis Drive: Fastest and Slowest Routes

If you're making the trip from Austin to Memphis, you're in for a fun, scenic journey. Sure, it can be a bit of a haul, but with the right timing, tunes, and snacks, you can make it an adventure. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the different routes you can take and how long each one takes, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

The Fastest Route

If you're all about speed and efficiency, your best bet is to take the I-35 N and I-40 E route. You'll start by heading north on I-35 for about 900 miles until you hit Oklahoma City, then you'll jump on I-40E for around 500 miles until you reach Memphis. All in all, that's a total distance of roughly 940 miles, with a driving time of about 14 hours in ideal conditions.

Of course, ideal conditions are not always the reality. If you're driving during peak traffic times (usually in the morning and late afternoon), you can expect the drive to take upwards of 16 hours due to heavy traffic and construction. If you're driving during off-peak hours (late at night and early in the morning), you might be able to shave off an hour or two. Also, keep in mind that while this route may be the fastest in terms of time, it may not be the most scenic.

The Slowest Route

If you've got a bit more time to spare and want to take the scenic route, you might go for the US-287 N and US-82 E path. This route is considerably longer, with a total distance of roughly 1,140 miles. You'll start by heading north on US 287 N, through the historic and charming cities of Wichita Falls and Vernon, then you'll take a turn east on the US-82 E for around 180 miles until you reach Memphis.

The slower overall pace of the route will give you time to enjoy the scenery in cities like Amarillo and Wichita Falls, as well as the beautiful landscapes in between. However, be aware that the slower pace of the trip means you'll probably be on the road for about 19 hours, and that's without factoring in traffic. If you're driving during peak hours, you may want to tack on an additional hour or two.

Conclusion

Whether you're all about efficiency or you want to take the scenic route, the trip from Austin to Memphis is a fun journey with a lot to offer. By taking into account your schedule and your preferences, you can choose the best route for you, and with a little luck, arrive in Memphis feeling energized and ready to explore.