The Epic Road Trip: Baltimore, MD to Aurora, CO
Are you planning an epic road trip to Aurora, Colorado from Baltimore, Maryland? The journey will take you from the coast to the mountains, and with the right route, it can be an unforgettable experience. In this post, we’ll explore the fastest and slowest routes you can take, the distance of each route, and the estimated time for peak and off-peak traffic.
Route Options and Distances
The fastest route, according to Google Maps, is via I-70 W, and it’s approximately 1,600 miles. The route will take you straight through the heart of the country and through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Depending on your speed, it should take you around 24 hours to get to Aurora, Colorado.
The second option is via I-80 W and I-76 W, which is approximately 1,800 miles. Although it’s a longer route, this way will take you through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and then through Nebraska and Colorado. You might need more than 24 hours to reach your destination due to different speed limits.
Fastest and Slowest Routes
The I-70 W route is the fastest option. Still, this route can be extremely busy during peak travel times, such as Memorial Day weekend, and traffic can slow to a crawl. It’s worth checking with a traffic app to see if there are any slow spots or diversions before you depart. During off-peak traffic times or night driving, you might save time and enjoy a more leisurely drive.
The I-80 and I-76 route is also known for its heavy traffic during peak travel times, particularly around major cities like Philadelphia, Indianapolis, and Des Moines. If you’re driving during the summer months, road work can add significant delays. However, if you’re driving at night or in less busy periods, you might find this route to be less stressful and provide an opportunity to explore some of the smaller towns while you're on the road.
Traffic and Drive Time
Driving during peak traffic times can be a hassle and lengthen the time it takes to travel to your destination. For example, if you’re driving the I-70 W route during holidays, you could add up to an extra five to six hours of travel time. However, if you’re driving during off-peak times like early or late in the day, you might save an hour or two of travel time.
Assuming you have an average driving speed of 70 mph, here’s an estimate of the time it would take to drive to Aurora, Colorado.
- Peak Traffic: 28-30 hours
- Off-Peak Traffic: 22-24 hours
Don’t forget to account for stops for food, bathroom breaks, fuel, and rest. Travel time can be significantly longer if you are driving with children, seniors, or people with disabilities.
In conclusion, there are two routes you can take driving from Baltimore, Maryland, to Aurora, Colorado. The I-70 W route is the fastest, but heavy traffic during peak travel times could extend your journey. The I-80 W and I-76 W route is longer but can be less crowded. Regardless of your chosen route, careful planning and preparation are critical to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Enjoy the scenery and have fun!