Alexandria, LA → Memphis, TN
301 mi · 6h 1m (driving)
Current Risk
High Risk
Extreme Heat Warning in effect — consider delaying
Alexandria
92°
Richland Parish
95°
Bolivar County
95°
Memphis
95°
Trip Briefing
3 segments · 301 mi · 6h 2m
Weather
☀️ Clear sky
95°F, wind 8 mph
Rest Stops
3
Truck svc
Cameras
6 live
Clear driving conditions expected
Rest stops in this segment:
- ● Rest Area
- ● TA
- ● Love's Travel Stop
Weather May Slow Traffic
Active weather advisory — expect slower travel
Traffic Cameras
See recent road conditions along your route
Images are snapshots updated periodically by state DOTs. Timestamps shown in images indicate when each photo was captured.
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Selected Route
Via US-71 → US-165 → ... → Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Expressway → I-40 West
Cameras shown are along this computed route
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US 71 at LA 1208 ( Jackson St.)
LA ·
US 71 at LA 28 (Monroe St.)
LA ·
LA 28 at John Eskew
LA ·
LA 1 (Bolton Ave.) at US 71
LA ·
I-49 at US 165/71
LA ·
I-49 at Pineville XWY
LA ·
Rest Stops Along Your Route
21 stops available
Swipe to see moreShowing 1-2 of 21
Get Weather Alerts for This Route
We'll notify you when conditions change before your trip. Never drive into a surprise storm again.
⚡ Recent Weather Events on This Route
Premium users received alerts for these conditions:
- 🌧️Aug 11: Rain advisory for afternoon departures
- ❄️Aug 9: Snow expected at higher elevations - consider earlier departure
- 🌫️Aug 6: Dense fog warning for morning travel
Don't miss the next alert →
Driving from Alexandria, LA to Memphis, TN covers 301 miles in roughly 6h 1m of drive time, crossing state lines. We track 6 live traffic cameras, 21 rest areas and 3 active weather alerts along this corridor so you can plan around them. Most drivers do this trip in one day; weather along the route matters more than the forecast at either endpoint, since you'll cross several climate zones.
7-Day Driving Outlook
Today
Aug 13
96° / 92°
No precip
Tomorrow
Aug 14
98° / 78°
No precip
Sat
Aug 15
98° / 77°
No precip
Sun
Aug 16
96° / 79°
No precip
Mon
Aug 17
98° / 78°
No precip
Tue
Aug 18
97° / 79°
No precip
Wed
Aug 19
96° / 79°
No precip
🗓️ Weekend Outlook
Saturday
Good to Go🌤️ Mainly clear at origin, ☀️ Clear sky at destination
Sunday
Good to Go☀️ Clear sky at origin, ☀️ Clear sky at destination
Plan This Route
Get hour-by-hour weather forecasts, real-time traffic, and find the optimal departure time.
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Current Conditions
Alexandria, LA
92°F
Wind: 7 mph
Memphis, TN
95°F
Wind: 9 mph
Weather data updated in real-time
Driving from Alexandria, LA to Memphis, TN
The 301-mile drive from Alexandria, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee takes approximately 6h 1m under normal conditions. Weather along this route can vary significantly, especially across varying terrain where weather conditions can change rapidly. Route Outlook helps you find the safest time to travel by showing you weather conditions at every point along your route, timed to when you'll actually be there.
This long-distance route crosses state lines from Louisiana into Tennessee, connecting Alexandria and Memphis. Covering 301 miles, this is a substantial drive that will take you through diverse terrain and weather patterns. Planning ahead with real-time conditions along the entire route — not just at your destination — is essential for a safe trip.
Common Weather Hazards on This Route
- Severe thunderstorms and flash flooding (spring and summer)
- Hurricane and tropical storm impacts (June through November)
Seasonal Driving Considerations
Weather along this route varies by season. Winter months can bring snow, ice, and reduced visibility, while summer may see thunderstorms, heat-related road issues, or construction zones. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable driving conditions but can still surprise with sudden weather changes. Regardless of season, checking real-time conditions along your entire route before departing can help you avoid the worst of it.
Best Time to Drive Alexandria to Memphis
For medium-distance drives like this 301-mile route, consider starting in the early morning to arrive before afternoon storms develop. Check the 7-day forecast above to find a day with favorable conditions along the entire route.
Driving Strategy
A 301-mile drive from Alexandria to Memphis takes a significant part of the day. Plan at least one fuel and rest stop along the way. If your route crosses elevation changes or state lines, expect weather conditions to shift mid-trip. Monitor the segment-by-segment forecast rather than just checking destination weather. Starting early in the morning typically avoids afternoon storm development and rush-hour congestion near urban areas.
Pro Tip
Use Route Outlook's departure optimizer to find the best time to leave. Our 4D trajectory engine considers weather at each point along your route at the exact time you'll be there — not just at your destination. It also integrates live data from traffic cameras, DOT 511 feeds, and road weather sensors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Alexandria to Memphis?
The drive is approximately 301 miles and takes about 6h 1m under normal traffic and weather conditions. Severe weather can add significant time to your trip.
What's the best day to drive this route?
Based on current forecasts, Sunday, Aug 16 looks ideal. Clear conditions expected along the entire route
Is it safe to drive from Alexandria to Memphis today?
Current conditions show high risk along this route. Conditions look favorable for travel. Always stay alert and adjust speed for changing conditions.
Are there rest areas on the Alexandria to Memphis route?
Yes, there are 21 rest areas along this route. Facilities include restrooms, parking, and in some cases picnic areas and vending machines. Rest stops are spaced throughout the drive, so you'll never be too far from a break.
Can I see live traffic cameras on this route?
Yes, Route Outlook shows 6 live traffic cameras along this route, sourced from state DOT feeds. You can check road visibility, traffic flow, and pavement conditions in real time before and during your drive.
What highways does this route use?
This route primarily uses US-71, LA 28, Other. Conditions can vary between highway segments, so check live camera feeds and road condition reports for each stretch before departing.
Are there any road closures on this route right now?
No significant incidents or road closures are currently reported along this route. Conditions can change quickly — this page updates automatically with the latest data from state DOT 511 systems.
Related Driving Guides
Finding the Safest Time to Drive: A Data-Driven Approach
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🛣️How to Check Road Conditions Before a Trip: All Your Options
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Don't Drive Blind Into Weather
Route Outlook shows you conditions at every point along your route—at the exact time you'll be there.
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