The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bel Air, Maryland

Are you planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bel Air, Maryland but not sure about the best route to take or how long it will take you to get there? Look no further as we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll break down the fastest and slowest routes, the distances of each route, and the estimated drive times based on traffic patterns.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bel Air, Maryland is via I-40 E and I-81 N. The distance of this route is approximately 1,785 miles, and with normal traffic patterns, it should take around 26 hours to complete the whole trip. If you’re a road warrior and want to get there as fast as possible, this route is for you.

On the other hand, the slowest route from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bel Air is via US-54 E and I-10 E. This route is approximately 2,324 miles long and can take up to 40 hours to drive. While it may be longer and slower, this route does offer some fantastic views along the way.

Time It Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

If you plan to embark on this road trip during peak traffic, you can expect the drive time to be longer than usual. Peak traffic in the East Coast usually occurs during rush hour in the mornings and evenings on weekdays, while the West Coast’s rush hour is during the afternoons.

For the fastest route, you can expect the drive time to be an additional two hours during peak hours, increasing the journey's duration from 26 hours to 28 hours. On the other hand, the slowest route's drive time could add up to five hours, bringing the total drive time to 45 hours.

Alternatively, if you embark on this road trip during off-peak hours, you can expect the journey's duration to be shorter. You could shave off up to 3 hours from the fastest route's drive time, completing the journey in just 23 hours.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Bel Air, Maryland, might be long, but it can be a fun and adventurous experience. Which route you choose will depend on your preference for driving time, speed, and beautiful scenery. If you're in a rush, take the faster route, but if you have the extra time and desire to enjoy the scenic route, take the slower route. Either way, make sure to plan your route and time carefully to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.