Road Trip: Exploring the Scenic Route from Badger, Iowa to Durango, Colorado

Are you ready for an adventure? Buckle up and get ready, because we're about to embark on a road trip from the charming town of Badger, Iowa, all the way to the stunning destination of Durango, Colorado. Whether you're yearning for a change of scenery or craving some quality time with Mother Nature, this journey is sure to satisfy your wanderlust.

Fast and Scenic: The Quickest Routes

Let's start with the fastest routes that will get your wheels turning. The most direct route from Badger, Iowa to Durango, Colorado is via Interstate 80 W and Interstate 76 W. Covering approximately 971 miles, this route can typically be driven in around 15-16 hours, depending on your speed and rest stops. However, be prepared for some heavy traffic, especially around major cities like Omaha, Nebraska and Denver, Colorado.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, brace yourself for the breathtaking landscapes and a slightly longer drive time. Head west on US-20 W from Badger, Iowa, and follow US-385 S through the enchanting Black Hills of South Dakota. Continue along US-85 S to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and merge onto I-25 S towards Fort Collins, Colorado. From there, take US-287 S to Durango, Colorado. While this route covers around 1,100 miles, it offers unforgettable vistas and picturesque small towns along the way. Expect the journey to take approximately 17-18 hours, allowing for stops to snap some Instagram-worthy photos.

The Need for Speed: Traffic Patterns

Traffic conditions can greatly impact your estimated arrival time, so it's always wise to plan around peak traffic hours. When it comes to the I-80 W and I-76 W route, it's best to avoid traveling during rush hour in Omaha, which typically occurs between 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM. Denver is another city notorious for congestion, so try to schedule your journey to avoid peak traffic between 7:00-9:00 AM and 3:00-6:00 PM.

For the scenic route, it's important to note that some portions of US-385 S and US-287 S may have slower speed limits due to their winding nature. This can affect your average driving speed, so keep that in mind while planning your stops and estimated arrival time. Additionally, Denver's busy hours apply to this route as well, so plan accordingly to skip the rush.

Timing Is Everything: Peak Traffic vs. Low Traffic

To better plan your route, let's compare the estimated driving times during peak traffic and low traffic periods. On the I-80 W and I-76 W route, assuming low traffic conditions, you can expect to reach Durango in about 14-15 hours. However, during peak traffic, this can extend to around 17-18 hours, accounting for potential delays and congestion.

On the scenic route, low traffic conditions would allow you to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, arriving in Durango in approximately 16-17 hours. But if you find yourself caught in peak traffic, especially around Denver, be prepared for the drive to take closer to 19-20 hours.

The Choice Is Yours: Freedom on the Open Road

Ultimately, the choice of route and timing depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value speed and efficiency, the interstate route is your best bet. On the other hand, if you yearn for adventure and want to immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse landscapes, the scenic route is the way to go. Whichever path you choose, remember that every road trip holds its own magic, and the journey can be just as enchanting as the destination. So turn up the music, roll down the windows, and let the open road guide you from Badger, Iowa to Durango, Colorado. Happy travels!