Road Trip from Ames to La Mesa: How Long Will It Take You?

Are you looking for an adventure, a change of scenery, or simply visiting family or friends? If you're planning a road trip from Ames, Iowa to La Mesa, California, you're in for a fun trip! While you might be excited to hit the road, it's essential to plan realistic drive times and routes. Driving straight through from Ames to La Mesa is over 1,600 miles, so you'll want to break up your trip into manageable segments.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Ames to La Mesa is likely to take nearly 24 hours of driving time. The shortest-distance route involves traveling southwest through southern Iowa, then proceeding southwest through Kansas and Colorado. After that, continue south-west through New Mexico to Arizona and, finally, to California. Road trips can be an enjoyable way to see the country, but it's essential to plan ahead and avoid feeling rushed and exhausted. Allow yourself some time for breaks, resting, and enjoying the journey.

A Scenic Drive

If you're not in a hurry and want to get the most out of your journey, you can opt for a more scenic route. Take I-80 west into Nebraska, then turn south on I-76 through Denver. From there, continue on I-70 west towards Grand Junction, Colorado, and then head southwest on US Route 160 and 163, stretching across northern Arizona. This route is longer, over 1,776 miles, but offers incredible views of the Rocky Mountains and stunning desert landscapes.

Driving times during peak and leisure hours

Peak driving periods can affect your travel times, particularly in metropolitan areas like Denver and Los Angeles, where road congestion is the norm. Typically, traffic is heaviest on weekdays, particularly during rush hour. Suppose you're leaving Iowa early in the morning, allowing for about two days of travel to reach La Mesa. In that case, you may make it there in two days. However, if you're looking for a more leisurely trip, allow at least three days of driving, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.

When it comes to estimating driving times, keep weather conditions in mind. Wintertime ice and snow can slow things down considerably, making travel more challenging or even unsafe. Sprawling cities also cause delays due to increased traffic and potential construction. With proper planning, though, this road trip from Ames to La Mesa can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In conclusion,

If you're going on a road trip from Ames to La Mesa, take your time planning your route. Check the weather and road conditions, and account for differences in your driving time. The fastest route involves about 24 hours of driving time, but be sure to take breaks when you stop for gas or food. Following the scenic route takes longer, but you'll enjoy beautiful views of Colorado and Arizona. Whatever your preference, safety, and patience are crucial, so enjoy the journey!