Road-Tripping from Ames, Iowa to Las Vegas, Nevada: How Long Will It Take?

Have you ever contemplated driving from Ames, Iowa to Las Vegas, Nevada? This is a road trip that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes, and it can be a fun-filled adventure with your family or friends. In this post, we'll explore the various routes you can take to get to Las Vegas, highlighting the fastest and slowest options, and how long each one will take based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route, Longest Distance – 1,314 Miles

The fastest route from Ames, Iowa to Las Vegas, Nevada is taking the I-80 W to I-76 W to I-70 W to I-15 S. It’s the longest route of the options we’ll cover, with a total distance of approximately 1,314 miles. Under ideal conditions, driving this route will take roughly 20 hours and 12 minutes.

However, at peak traffic times, that estimate can be thrown into disarray. Expect delays on I-15 S in Salt Lake City and along the I-70 W stretch from Denver to Grand Junction. Add another 2-3 hours to the drive time in unfavorable road conditions.

Shorter Route with Beautiful Scenery – 1,214 Miles

A more scenic route would take you via Denver and Salt Lake City. Take I-35 S to Kansas City, I-70 W to Denver, I-25 S to Colorado Springs, and then I-70 W to I-15 S in Utah. It may add about 100 extra miles to your route, but it's worth it for the sights you'll see. The total distance covers 1,214 miles, and the drive time will be slightly shorter than the fastest route, an estimated 19 hours and 38 minutes.

This route is also subject to traffic, particularly in Denver and Colorado Springs, which can be very congested during rush hour traffic. Aim for off-peak driving periods to avoid delays.

Scenic but longer route – 1,406 Miles

For the road trip enthusiasts with a lot of time on their hands, this route may be to your liking. Take the I-80 W to I-76 W and then follow signs to US-30 W. You'll then need to cross Wyoming's Great Divide Basin via WY-789 S to WY-28 S through Colorado, before heading down on I-70 W to I-15 S. The total distance for this route is 1,406 miles, and it takes around 22 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

It's well worth the extra miles, as you'll pass through some stunning landscapes, such as the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the Grand Teton National Park, each with their own unique charms.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are several routes to choose from when driving from Ames, Iowa to Las Vegas, Nevada. While the fastest route may seem like the best option, the scenic routes have their advantages, and you'll get to see a little bit more of the country while en route. Regardless of which route you take, plan for traffic delays during peak hours. However, if you're lucky enough to own an electric vehicle, then the drive is even more cost-effective, and you'll be able to save on gas money. So what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite road trip playlist and hit the road!