Travel route from Niles, MI to Hiltonhead,SC

Question

What is a good route to take from Niles, MI to Hiltonhead, avoiding 4/5 lane highways which includes routes 278 and I75. My nerves can’t take the hazardous driving conditions of the 4/5 lanes anymore.

Answer

To avoid high-traffic 4-lane and 5-lane highways like I-75 and Route 278 while traveling from Niles, MI to Hilton Head, SC, here is a suggested route that takes you through smaller highways and scenic backroads for a more relaxed drive. You’ll be bypassing some of the major highways and navigating more manageable roads with fewer lanes:

Start on US-31 S from Niles, MI:
From Niles, take US-31 South, which will take you through rural areas and smaller towns. This is a much quieter and scenic route compared to the larger interstates.
Take US-421 S in Indiana:
Follow US-31 S down to US-421 S, a 2-lane highway that runs through small towns and offers a more relaxed driving experience. This is less stressful compared to larger highways.
Continue through Louisville, KY:
While driving through Louisville, avoid the large I-75/I-64 corridor. Instead, consider navigating through secondary routes like US-60 or KY-144, which will bypass some of the heaviest traffic in the city.
Travel on US-129 S in Tennessee:
As you approach Tennessee, take US-129 S, a scenic highway that offers a smooth ride through rolling hills. It’s a quieter route compared to the busy I-75 corridors.
Stay on smaller roads through Georgia:
In Georgia, you can take US-441 to bypass the bigger highways, as this route takes you through towns and more open, less-congested areas. You may need to adjust the route based on current traffic conditions, but US-441 typically avoids major interstates.
Enter South Carolina via US-17 S:
Once in South Carolina, you can switch to US-17 S, a route that will take you towards Hilton Head while avoiding busy highways like I-95. US-17 S also offers some scenic coastal views along the way.

This route will give you a chance to take your time, enjoy smaller towns, and drive on quieter roads with fewer lanes and less traffic. While it will take a little longer than driving straight through on I-75 or Route 278, the trade-off is a much more relaxed experience, especially if you're looking to avoid the stress of larger highways.

Safe travels, and I hope you have a peaceful journey to Hilton Head!