Durham to Danville Va, 501 or 86? (Cary, Hillsborough: live in, horse, vehicle)

[jeffs555]

Distance is about the same, so which is faster?

[FVmommy]

I've driven from the Triangle to Danville many times, and always use 86 (we take 40 to exit 261 through Hillsborough, instead of the exit onto 86; Durham Freeway to 85 to the exit with the McDonald's - the first exit WEST of the 86 exit also works); however, I never thought about trying 501 (to 58 in South Boston, I assume?). I have taken 501 to other parts of Virginia, and prefer 86 - not sure why. I can't imagine 501 would be faster unless you live in very North Durham. Might depend on where you're going in Danville as well.

Both routes have 2-lane sections where your speed is determined more by the vehicle in front of you than anything else - can be smooth sailing, or can be SLOW!)

[blueheronNC]

I do that drive about twice a month at least, and always take 86. I get on Hwy 70 just west of Durham, and take that around the top of Hillsborough and turn right on 86. Takes 50 minutes or so.

[leighbhe]

ditto, 86, seems the quickest drive. We have tried 501, and it is slower.

Leigh

[T|K]

501 has a lot of lights so can be slower, but it depends on what side of Danville you are going to (even though danville is not that big, it matters a little bit)

[CHTransplant]

86 is a very pleasant and scenic drive as well - assuming you don't get stuck behind a loaded logging truck. (There are plenty of passing opportunities.)

[frankpc]

Depends where in Durham you start from. If you are east of 501 (Treyburn, Black Horse Run, Grove Park) then take the back roads up to 501N in Bahama so you miss most of the traffic lights. 501N to 57N throught Milton. Cross into Va, 62N to 58/360 W. Agree that you want to miss 501 through Durham proper unless you need to be reminded of how poorly traffic signals are managed in the triangle.
If you are in Cary/ West Durham then 86 is a better route. Certainly a better road.

Frank

[coltank]

86