Road Trip to the Southwest: Time to Drive from Ann Arbor to Albuquerque

Are you considering a road trip from Ann Arbor, Michigan to Albuquerque, New Mexico? This blog post is for you! We’ll cover the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the time it takes to travel each route. So buckle up, grab some snacks and let's get started!

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Ann Arbor to Albuquerque is via I-94 W and I-80 W. The route takes you through Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming before landing in Colorado and finally New Mexico. The distance from Ann Arbor to Albuquerque via this route is approximately 1,540 miles, and it takes around 24 hours to travel. Of course, travel time may vary depending on traffic patterns, rest stops, and detours. So, if you're driving at peak traffic times, expect to add a few hours to your journey. However, if you avoid busy times and hit the road early in the day, you can make it to your destination in around 23 hours.

Scenic Route

If you don't mind taking your time and enjoying the scenery, the slowest and most beautiful route is via I-69 S and US-41 S through Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and finally through Oklahoma and Texas into New Mexico. It covers 2,155 miles and takes approximately 36 hours of drive time. As with the fastest route, travel time is affected by traffic patterns, rest stops, and detours. While this route will take you a couple of days, it rewards you with scenic views along the way.

Middle Ground Route

Perhaps you don't want to shave off too much travel time or add too many hours to your trip. In that case, you may want to consider a "middle-ground" route. The middle ground route takes you through I-80 W and I-35 S. It covers 1,650 miles and takes around 26 hours of drive time. If you're driving at peak traffic times, add an extra 2-3 hours to your journey. However, if you can hit the road early in the day or later in the evening, you may complete the trip in around 25 hours.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it; three different routes to consider for your road trip from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Whether you're looking for a faster route or a more scenic one, there's something for everyone. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for the long journey ahead. Also, before embarking on your trip, make sure to check the weather conditions and any possible road closures along the way. Safe travels and enjoy the journey!