New GoCary Route Takes You From Cary to Downtown Apex Every Half Hour

GoCary recently launched a brand new route that makes it easier than ever to visit our neighbors in Apex. Route 9 now runs every half hour and connects downtown Cary to downtown Apex in a quick and simple trip. I decided to hop on the bus myself to see how the new route works and whether it is a practical option for anyone looking to explore, grab a coffee, or just take a break from driving.

Like all GoCary routes, this is completely free to use and you don’t need to do anything special beforehand; you literally just go onto the bus and ride it to your destination.

A Simple Ride That Only Takes About 15 Minutes

I boarded right outside of Dorcas on High House, but it may make sense for most people to board at the Cary Depot in downtown. The entire trip took about 15 minutes, which is faster than I expected for a brand new regional connector.

The bus did not have air conditioning during my ride, but the short travel time made it manageable. The ride felt calm and steady, and the bus made its way through neighborhoods and familiar corridors in a way that almost felt like a mini tour. It was very clean, and a couple people joined as the bus progressed into Apex.

Where Route 9 Actually Goes

Route 9 runs along several major roads between Cary and Apex, including High House Road, Old Apex Road, and North Salem Street. You can view a PDF of the route here.

The GoCary app is very useful and allows you to track your bus’s location, plan out a trip, check schedules, and more. Whenever I ride GoCary, I always use the app to figure out where and when to go. You can get info on the app here.

Why This Route Matters

Cary has invested heavily in improving local and regional mobility, and this new link between Cary and Apex is a strong example of that momentum.

For riders, the benefits are clear:

• A direct connection between two walkable downtowns
• A (currently) free ride for anyone who wants to explore a nearby town without worrying about parking
• A useful option for people who work, shop, or visit across the two communities

Even if you do not plan to ride regularly, it’s a great option for both Cary and Apex residents who want to leave the car at home or are unable to drive.

A Fun Little Adventure

Taking Route 9 is a low commitment way to explore somewhere nearby. You can hop on in Cary, ride into downtown Apex, grab a coffee, visit a shop or two, then head back without touching your car. It made the trip feel like a tiny, easy adventure.

You can check the official schedule and route information here.