The Scenic Drive from Anacortes to Spanaway: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Anacortes, Washington to Spanaway, Washington but wondering how long the drive will take? Here’s a breakdown of the drive time via the fastest and slowest routes, and some tips on how to plan your trip based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Anacortes to Spanaway is via I-5 S and WA-512 E, which is around 135 miles. This route typically takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes when traffic is light. However, heavy traffic can double or even triple that driving time.

If you leave during peak traffic hours on weekdays (7-9 am and 4-6 pm), plan for potential congestion in Tacoma, Olympia, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The same is true if you’re traveling on weekends during peak summer tourist season. In these conditions, the estimated drive time can rise to 3 hours.

The Scenic Route

If you have the luxury of a little extra time, you can take the scenic route via Whidbey Island. This route is about 160 miles and typically takes around 3 hours. You’ll take a ferry from Anacortes to Whidbey Island, drive along scenic coastal roads, cross another ferry from Port Townsend to Keystone, drive over the Deception Pass Bridge, and then hit I-5 South to Spanaway.

Of course, you could opt to just drive one way via the scenic route to enjoy the views and then take the faster I-5 S route back. If you’re interested in exploring further, consider visiting the lavender farms and charming towns along the way, like Port Townsend, Coupeville, and Langley.

Tips for Time Management

No matter which route you take, plan your departure time accordingly. If you’re in a rush, avoid peak traffic hours and consider taking I-5 S. You can also check traffic conditions on WSDOT’s website or use a traffic app to see what the roads are like before you leave.

If you’re not in a hurry and want to take the scenic route, take into account the ferry schedules and make sure to catch the last ferry of the day. Also, make time to stop and explore the little towns and natural wonders along the way.

Final thoughts? Plan ahead and enjoy the ride!