I'm trying to figure out the best route through Virginia to Boone,NC. I can either take I-66 to I-81 to I-77 to Route 421 or take I-66 to Route 29 through Virginia to I-40 in Greensboro,NC to Route 421 or I can take I-95 to I-85 to I-40 to Route 421. How is Route 29 through Virginia? Im thinking about doing that for one leg of the trip and take I-81 for the other.

I'd go the 81 route - because I think it's a much prettier route.

I81 route would work very well.

blueridgeskyline.com/map.htm

prettiest most scenic by far if time

I 81 otherwise for me.

Route 29 is slow going --traffic lights and places where speed drops or varies (speed traps, you might say).

I'd go 66 to 81 to 77. That's the fastest and just as scenic as 29.

I-81 is KNOWN for a high accident rate and the route is LOADED with semi's. There has been so much difficulty at times that the state has increased the number of highway patrol units. OTOH if you get on it early in the day it isn't nearly as bad. Not trying to say don't use it but just be aware that despite the 70 MPH speed limit on many sections, it can be unnerving to drive on for some folks.

I am always amazed at this post about 81. It's true of almost every interstate in the country. It is no better or worse than many, and actually better than some.

Traffic does jam up at times on I-81, but if you are patient it's not that bad and the scenery is great. If I'm driving local, 10-15 miles north or south from home, I use route 11. Anything further I'll use 81.

The highest accident rate on 81 is in the Strasburg area where there were several fatalites the last couple of years.

have you considered the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Ive been on parts of I-81 here and there and its not that bad. I think ill go that way. Its probably much better than taking I-95 or I-40 through Greensboro and Winston Salem from Route 29. I might drive some of the Blue Ridge Parkway on the way home. But, on the way there, ill take I-81 to I-77 to Route 421