The Road from Ames, Iowa to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

If you’re planning a road trip from Ames, Iowa to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, there are several routes you can take, each with its pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of the fastest and slowest routes and how long it might take you to get there.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Ames to Pittsburgh is via I-80 E and I-76 E. This route is a total of 752 miles and takes approximately 11 hours and 20 minutes to drive, assuming you don’t stop along the way.

At peak traffic times, the drive can take significantly longer, with potential accidents or construction slowing down the journey. These times might also fluctuate depending on the season of the year, time of day and weather.

The Scenic Route

If you prefer to take your time and enjoy the views, consider taking the scenic route via US-20 E and I-79 S. Although this route is slightly slower at 788 miles long, it provides breathtaking views of the Midwest farmland and Appalachian Mountains with several parks and scenic routes along the way.

Despite taking longer - about 14 hours- this route has its benefits as there are fewer commercial vehicles, traffic jams and also reduces the number of stops you would need to make if traveling with family or friends.

Avoiding Traffic Congestion

Finally, If you’re looking to avoid traffic, consider taking I-70 E and I-68 E. Although this route takes a little longer at 795 miles, it avoids the major highways, and as a result, you get to avoid the congestion that comes with it. At peak times, this route takes around 13 hours, but you can shave off crucial driving time by travelling through different cities, during certain times of day or even waiting overnight.

Regardless of the route you choose, ensure to factor in rest breaks and meal stops along the way as well as some potential traffic snarls that come with traveling in this region.

In conclusion, while the driving distance from Ames, Iowa to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania varies slightly, there are a few options available to help make your trip safer and quicker. It’s best to research and plan your route by considering your journey's needs, including traffic and scenic views while taking necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Safe driving!