Road Trip Chronicles: The Time It Takes To Drive From Ames, Iowa to Seattle, Washington

Planning a road trip from Ames, Iowa to Seattle, Washington but not quite sure how long it will take? Fear not, fellow traveler! In this blog post, we’ll explore various routes, distances, and driving times to help you make the most of your journey.

The Fastest Route

If you’re looking to get to the Emerald City as quickly as possible, take the I-80 and I-84 W route. This route is approximately 1,543 miles long and can take about 24-25 hours of non-stop driving. However, it’s important to note that this time estimate does not include stops for gas, food, or rest breaks.

Now, let’s talk about traffic patterns. During peak traffic times, particularly around major cities such as Portland, driving can be slower, and you may need to spend 26-27 hours on the road. However, if you avoid peak traffic times and drive during off-peak hours, you can complete the drive in about 23-24 hours.

The Scenic Route

But what if you’re not in a hurry, and would rather take the scenic route? If that’s the case, we recommend driving through Yellowstone National Park. This route adds an extra 264 miles, making the total length of the trip approximately 1,807 miles.

Driving through Yellowstone can add about 5-7 hours to your journey, depending on how long you want to stay there. But let’s not forget, this route is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. So, take your time and enjoy the journey!

The Slowest Route

If the journey itself is the destination, then why not take the slowest route? By driving along the US-2 W, you can explore some hidden gems of North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. This route is approximately 1,930 miles long and can take about 36-37 hours of non-stop driving.

But let’s be real, you’re not going to be driving non-stop, are you? If you take your time and enjoy the ride, you can add a few extra days to your itinerary and make some unforgettable memories.

In conclusion, there are several different routes you can take when driving from Ames, Iowa to Seattle, Washington. The fastest route may be the most convenient, but taking the scenic or slowest route can make your road trip even more unforgettable. Just remember to plan for variations in drive times depending on traffic patterns. Safe travels!