Road Trip from Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia: How Long Will It Take?

Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it takes careful consideration since you want to have the best experience possible. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, knowing the average drive time can help plan your trip accordingly.

Different routes and drive times

The distance between Ames, Iowa and Salem, West Virginia is approximately 840 miles, and there are different routes you can take to get to your destination. The fastest route is via I-70 E, which takes around 12 hours and 30 minutes to drive, covering 838 miles. If you choose to take this route, make a stop in Columbus, Ohio, and check out the city's art scene.

Another good option is taking I-80 E and then switching to I-76 E and I-68 E, which promises beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains. This route requires more time with an approximate driving time of 14 hours, covering a distance of 880 miles.

Traffic patterns

Since you don't want to be caught in heavy traffic, it's important to consider the time of day you plan to embark on your journey. If you leave at peak traffic times, such as rush hour, your journey can take much longer than expected.

During low traffic density times, the journey from Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia, usually takes around 12 hours. However, if you are driving during peak traffic times, the same journey can take you up to 16 hours, which means that you should expect congestion along the way.

Final considerations

Before you hit the road, it's crucial to ensure that you have adequate rest, food, and drinks, since it's not easy to predict how many hours you will end up driving. Also, make sure that you plan time for necessary stops, such as fueling up and rest breaks.

In conclusion, knowing the drive time from Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia, can help you plan for the best road trip possible. Whether you choose to take the fastest route or a more extended, scenic one, or drive during peak traffic times or low-traffic conditions, planning ahead will enable you to enjoy the journey and ensure that you reach your destination safely.