"Roaming the Southwest: Driving from Albuquerque, NM to St. George, UT"

If you're looking to explore the Southwest, a scenic drive from Albuquerque, New Mexico to St. George, Utah should definitely be on your list. However, before hitting the road, it's important to know the time it will take you to enjoy the trip. The driving distance is approximately 765 miles, so plan accordingly. Here are some route options and approximate driving times, depending on traffic conditions.

Fastest Route

The quickest and most direct route is usually the most popular. Take I-40 West out of Albuquerque until you reach Exit 42 for US-491/US 160 West. Continue on US-160 West and merge onto US-89 North. Once you reach UT-9 in Springdale, turn left and continue until you reach St. George. This route is around 750 miles and typically takes around 11 to 12 hours. However, the time may vary based on traffic conditions, so plan accordingly.

Scenic Route

If you have a more relaxed itinerary and have time to explore, there are many scenic routes available from Albuquerque to St. George. Begin your journey on I-25 North through Santa Fe and Taos. Once in Colorado, switch to US-160 West towards Cortez, where you'll find entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Take the time to explore the ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the rich history of the area. Exit the park towards Kayenta and Monument Valley before making your way to St. George, Utah. This route spans around 925 miles and will take approximately 16 to 17 hours.

High Traffic Times

During the peak tourist season, you may expect more traffic on the road, and thus a longer driving time. If you follow the fastest route, it's best to avoid rush hour traffic in bigger cities, such as Albuquerque or Flagstaff, Arizona, typically from 7 AM to 9 AM. Late-afternoon hours may also see an increase of drivers on the road, so plan accordingly to avoid the hectic flow. The scenic route may be less congested for tourists but may have fluctuating construction, depending on the time of year.

Low Traffic Times

If time is not a huge concern, try to avoid peak travel times to save on gas, travel expenses, and time. If leaving early or late, you can avoid high traffic. Choosing the scenic route may provide a more leisurely opportunity to take in the sights and enjoy quiet roads. The speed limit is, on average, 70 miles per hour, and tolerable for a long drive. The best time of year to take this drive without worrying about large crowds is usually from December – February, as long as weather conditions permit.

Driving from Albuquerque to St. George can be a long, yet beautiful adventure, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the Southwest. Plan accordingly, consider the traffic flow, and take turns driving so everyone can enjoy the beauty outside. Don't forget to pack plenty of on-the-go snacks and prepare fun road trip games to keep the family entertained!