"The Great Roadtrip: Driving from Ankeny, Iowa to Austin, Texas"

Calling all travel enthusiasts! Have you ever wondered how long does it take to reach Texas from the heart of Iowa? The journey might seem overwhelming, but worry not, for we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the fastest and slowest routes to take, the distance covered, and the estimated time it takes under different traffic patterns. Let’s hit the road!

The Fast Route vs. The Scenic Route

If you’re looking to get to Austin quickly, taking I-35 South is your best bet. The distance between these two cities is around 995 miles, and the driving time is approximately 14 hours in good traffic conditions. However, achieving this time depends significantly on traffic conditions, and driving at peak traffic times may add a couple of hours to your journey.

For those who would like a scenic drive, take I-35 South until Emporia, then switch to the I-335 South to the K-15 exit, which leads to the Flint Hills Scenic Byway. The byway is a two-lane road that runs through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Kansas. The drive is longer this way, around 1,088 miles, and takes an average of 16 hours, but it’s a beautiful trip worth taking.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route is a more relaxed way to enjoy the trip if you have the time or are just not in a hurry. This route covers 1,077 miles. Start by taking I-80 West, exit onto I-76 near Denver, and then merge onto I-70 W. Then take a right onto US-50 W, which will lead you to Austin. Since this route is longer, it takes about 18 hours to reach your destination, barring traffic conditions.

Final thoughts

It’s worth considering that traffic will be your biggest factor in determining drive time. On average, allow an extra hour per 100 miles for traffic alone, particularly in busy metropolitan areas such as Kansas City or Oklahoma City.

If you’re in a hurry and aren’t interested in a leisurely drive, taking the I-35 South is the quickest way to reach Texas. For those who love the scenic drive and the sights, the Kansas Flint Hills Scenic Byway is perfect for you. Lastly, for those looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the trip, taking a more extended drive through I-80 could be the way to go.

No matter the route chosen, make sure to take plenty of time for rest stops and breaks. This will ensure a safe, enjoyable trip to go as smoothly as possible. Happy driving!