The Road Trip from Albuquerque, NM to Placentia, CA: What to Expect?

Are you looking to embark on a cross-country road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Placentia, California? If so, then read on! This blog post will provide you with all the information you need about the various routes you can take, the distances, and the time it will take, depending on the route you choose.

The Fastest Route

If you are in a hurry to get to Placentia, then you might want to consider taking the fastest route, which is via I-40 W and I-15 S. This route is approximately 784 miles long and takes around 11 hours of straight driving to complete. However, this estimate may vary, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. To give you an idea, during peak traffic times, such as rush hour, it may take you up to 14 hours to complete the journey.

The Scenic Route

If you have more time to spare and want to enjoy the scenic route, then you might want to consider taking the I-40 W and I-17 S route. This route is approximately 888 miles long and takes around 13 hours to complete. One of the highlights of this route is that you will pass through Flagstaff and Sedona, which are both known for their breathtaking natural beauty. However, it is worth noting that this route has many winding roads and steep inclines, which can slow you down considerably. Therefore, it is best to plan for extra travel time.

The Slowest Route

If you are in no rush and want to explore more of New Mexico and Arizona, then you might want to consider taking the slowest route, which is via US-60 W and US-93 S. This route is approximately 1,116 miles long and takes around 20 hours to complete. Although this route takes the longest to complete, it is worth considering, especially if you want to take in the stunning views of the Grand Canyon.

In summary, the fastest route takes around 11 hours, while the scenic route takes around 13 hours, and the slowest route takes around 20 hours. However, keep in mind that these times can vary depending on traffic conditions and your preferred speed of travel. Nonetheless, no matter which route you take, driving from Albuquerque to Placentia is an enjoyable journey that you won't regret taking. Happy travels!