Road Trip! How Long Does It Really Take to Drive from Ashburn, Virginia to Bethesda, Maryland?

If you're planning a drive from Ashburn, Virginia to Bethesda, Maryland, you've probably wondered how long it will take you to get there. The answer? It depends. There are several routes you can take, and traffic patterns can vary greatly depending on the time of day and day of the week. But don't worry - we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll break down the fastest and slowest routes, along with the distance and estimated travel time for each.

The Fastest Route

If speed is your top priority, taking VA-267 E and I-495 N is the way to go. This route is just over 25 miles long, and should take you about 30 minutes in light traffic. However, during peak rush hour times, this route can take up to an hour and a half due to congestion on the Beltway. If you're traveling during off-peak times, you can expect to travel at a smooth 60 miles per hour on the highway. But during peak times, you'll crawl along at a snail's pace with everyone else.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a rush and want to take a more scenic route, consider taking Loudoun County Parkway and River Road. This route is almost 27 miles long, so it's slightly longer than the fastest route. However, it's also a more interesting drive with beautiful views along the Potomac River. The downside is that this route will take you about 45 minutes in light traffic, and up to two hours during peak rush hour.

The Slowest Route

If your main goal is to avoid the Beltway at all costs, taking Route 7 all the way to Bethesda is an option. This route is just over 28 miles long, and will take about an hour in light traffic. However, this route can take up to two and a half hours during the morning and evening commutes due to heavy traffic on Route 7 and the surrounding surface streets.

In conclusion, the driving time from Ashburn, Virginia to Bethesda, Maryland can vary widely depending on the route you take and the time of day you're traveling. If you're in a hurry, VA-267 E and I-495 N is the fastest option. But if you have some extra time and want to enjoy the scenery, Loudoun County Parkway and River Road are the way to go. And if you just can't stand sitting in traffic on the Beltway, take Route 7 - just be prepared for a longer trip. No matter which route you choose, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going, and enjoy the ride!