The Scenic Drive from Ashland, Wisconsin to Ironwood, Michigan

Are you planning a road trip from Ashland, Wisconsin to Ironwood, Michigan? You're in for a treat! This scenic drive takes you through the heart of the Midwest, with beautiful forests, quaint towns, and stunning Lake Superior views along the way. But before you set off, you might be wondering: how long will it take to get there?

The Fastest Route: 1 hour 20 minutes

The quickest way to get from Ashland to Ironwood is to take US-2 West. This route is just 56 miles long and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes in moderate traffic. You'll drive through the charming town of Hurley and cross over the state line into Michigan, where you'll reach Ironwood. This route is ideal if you're short on time or if you just want to get there as quickly as possible.

The Scenic Route: 2 hours 30 minutes

For a more leisurely drive, take WI-13 South from Ashland, which will take you through the stunning Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Follow the signs for US-2 West and continue on the aforementioned route to Ironwood. While this route is longer, at about 128 miles, it's a more picturesque drive that takes advantage of the stunning natural scenery of Northern Wisconsin and Michigan. The drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes on average.

When to Go

No matter which route you choose, you'll want to keep in mind that traffic conditions can affect your travel time. During peak hours, the drive from Ashland to Ironwood can take longer due to congestion and automobile accidents. It's best to avoid the morning and evening rush hour if possible. However, if you do have to travel during those hours, be prepared to add an additional 30 minutes to your drive time. Alternatively, if you go during off-hours, like midday or during the weekend, your drive will be much smoother and quicker.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to take the fastest or most scenic route, each drive has its advantages. If you want to get to Ironwood as soon as possible, take US-2 West, but if you have time to explore and soak in the beauty of Northern Wisconsin and Michigan, take WI-13 South. Whichever route you choose, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to take in the gorgeous scenery along the way. Safe travels!