The Ultimate Guide To Driving From Bakersfield To Thousand Oaks

If you're planning a road trip from Bakersfield to Thousand Oaks, you're probably wondering how long it would take to get there. The distance between the two cities is roughly 120 miles, which can seem like an arduous journey, but with the right information, it doesn't have to be. Here's everything you need to know about driving from Bakersfield to Thousand Oaks.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Bakersfield to Thousand Oaks would be to take the I-5 South and transition onto the CA-126 West. This route gives you the advantage of avoiding traffic lights and driving on highways, which generally leads to better travel times. The total driving distance on this route is approximately 128 miles, and it typically takes an estimated 2 hours and 6 minutes to get there.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can opt to drive along the CA-33 South. This route adds an extra 20 miles to your journey but offers breathtaking views of the Los Padres National Forest landscape. It's also one of the slower routes, taking about 2 hours and 22 minutes, but that doesn't mean it's not a great option.

Traffic Patterns

Peak traffic times on the I-5 between Bakersfield and Thousand Oaks are generally during weekday rush hours, which can add an extra 30-45 minutes to your journey. If you're looking to make good time, it's best to avoid travelling between 3 pm and 6 pm on weekdays.

On the other hand, if you're driving during the weekends, especially on Sundays, traffic tends to be much lighter, and you can make it to Thousand Oaks in under 2 hours!

Recommended Route

Our recommendation would be to take the I-5 South and transition onto the CA-126 West. This route is fast, straightforward, and gives you a great chance to catch all the magnificent sights along the way.

An essential tip to keep in mind when travelling this route is to pack for the weather. Temperatures can change radically, depending on the season and time of day you're driving, so bring some snacks and stay hydrated on your road trip to Thousand Oaks.

In conclusion, driving from Bakersfield to Thousand Oaks can be a great experience no matter which route you take. Whether it's a business trip or a leisure drive, knowing the fastest and slowest routes, traffic patterns and picking the best option can help make your trip much more enjoyable. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and hit the road!