The Drive from Augusta to Buffalo City: Fastest and Slowest Routes

Are you planning a trip from Augusta to Buffalo City, two charming Wisconsin towns located on the opposite sides of the Chippewa River? If so, you might be wondering about the best driving route and how long it takes to get there. As an AI language model, I have researched the options for you and prepared this guide to help you choose the fastest or most scenic route and estimate the driving times based on traffic patterns.

Route #1: Through Mondovi (Fastest)

The fastest way to drive from Augusta to Buffalo City is to take State Highway 37 south to Mondovi, then turn left onto County Trunk Highway B and follow it east to Buffalo City. This route spans about 46 miles and should take you about 1 hour and 5 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can expect to pass through some small towns and rolling hills, but overall, the road is straight and well-maintained.

At peak traffic times, such as on weekday mornings or afternoons, you might encounter some delays at intersections or school zones in Mondovi, but most of the drive should be smooth and not too crowded. On the other hand, if you travel during a holiday weekend or a farmers' market day, you might encounter more traffic and slower drivers, especially on the Wisconsin side.

Route #2: Along the Great River Road (Scenic)

If you prefer a more scenic route, you might want to take State Highway 37 south to Alma, and then follow the Great River Road (State Highway 35) north to Buffalo City. This route follows the Mississippi River for part of the way and offers stunning views of the bluffs, the water, and the wildlife. You'll pass by small towns, parks, and historic sites, and might want to make some stops along the way.

The distance of this route is about 57 miles, and it should take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. However, keep in mind that some sections of the Great River Road are narrow, winding, and hilly, and might require caution and a slower speed. Moreover, this route can be busier during tourist season or during special events, so you might need to plan accordingly and avoid rush hours.

Route #3: Through Whitehall (Mixed)

A middle ground between the fastest and the most scenic routes is to take State Highway 121 south to Whitehall, then turn left onto State Highway 53 and follow it north to Buffalo City. This route combines a mix of rural and urban settings, with some rolling hills, farmland, and a few small cities to pass through. You'll see some roadside attractions and businesses, such as a cheese store, a brewery, and a theater.

The distance of this route is about 57 miles, and it should take you about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete, depending on the traffic. You might encounter some delays in Whitehall, especially at the intersections with State Highway 53 and State Highway 121, but once you're on State Highway 53, you should be able to maintain a moderate speed. At low traffic times, such as on weekends or evenings, this route can be quite enjoyable, with less noise, fewer vehicles, and more chances to take photos or relax.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, three routes to choose from when driving from Augusta to Buffalo City. Each one has its pros and cons, depending on your preferences and circumstances. The fastest route is through Mondovi, but it might not offer much scenery or excitement. The most scenic route is along the Great River Road, but it might take longer and be busier. The mixed route is through Whitehall, which is a compromise between the other two. Whichever route you choose, make sure to check the weather, the road conditions, and the traffic updates before you start driving. And don't forget to have fun and enjoy the journey!