The Scenic Route to Billings, Montana From Astoria, Oregon

Have you ever wanted to take a road trip from the beautiful Oregon Coast to the rugged beauty of Montana? Well, you're in luck! We've got the scoop on the fastest and most scenic routes from Astoria, Oregon, to Billings, Montana.

The Fastest Route

If you're in a hurry and want to get to Billings ASAP, the fastest route will take you east on I-84 through Baker City, Oregon, and then on to I-90 through Bozeman and Livingston, Montana. While this journey might not offer the breathtaking views you might hope for, it will get you to your destination in roughly 11.5 hours, covering a total distance of around 750 miles.

The Scenic Route

For those who aren't in a hurry and have a passion for nature, taking the Scenic Route will not disappoint. Head east on US-30 from Astoria, and follow the Columbia River eastward into the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. The scenery here is incredible, with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and the mighty Columbia River itself. Along the way, enjoy a stop at Multnomah Falls, Crown Point, and Hood River for some local flair. Once you make it to The Dalles, Oregon, you'll curve northward toward Pendleton on U.S. 97. From Pendleton, take I-84 to continue through Idaho, and then finally enter Montana through Missoula. From there, head east on I-90 through Bozeman and Livingston, and you'll finally arrive in Billings. All in all, this route covers roughly 794 miles and will take around 16 hours. A caveat to this route is that it requires at least three days to enjoy the landscapes and attractions through the Columbia River Gorge, along with stops in other cities in route.

Traffic Patterns

Peak traffic times can impact your journey, both adding time to your drive and zapping the fun out of the trip. The fastest route will be most affected by traffic in Portland and the Vancouver area. Leaving Astoria by 3:00 PM (or earlier) should ensure you miss the worst traffic and get an earlier start on your journey. By heading out early, you'll avoid the end-of-workday rush hours and save yourself some time for stops along the way without compromising time. If you opt for the scenic route, be prepared for slower driving and road construction. Missoula is often congested, so plan accordingly and avoid peak traffic hours.

Overall, both the fastest and most scenic routes to Billings, Montana from Astoria, Oregon have their own advantages. It comes down to the time you have, your interests, and your priorities. You can either opt for speed if time is of the essence, or take in some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes along the way to really stretch your legs and enjoy the journey. Either way, travel safely and have fun!