Driving Time between Baltimore, Maryland and Lake of the Woods, Virginia

A picture depicting driving

Driving from Baltimore, Maryland to Lake of the Woods, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland to Lake of the Woods, Virginia? The route you choose will greatly impact the amount of time it will take you to reach your destination. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Baltimore to Lake of the Woods will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes with optimal traffic conditions. The route begins by taking I-695 E and I-97 S, then transitioning to US-50 E and heading south on US-17 before reaching Lake of the Woods. This route is about 120 miles long and is the quickest way to get to your destination. However, traffic can significantly impact the travel time, particularly on weekdays and during peak traffic periods.

Slowest Route

Alternatively, there is a slower but more scenic route available that can take up to 3 hours and 15 minutes, depending on conditions. This route starts by taking I-97 S, then US-301 S, and US-17 S before reaching Lake of the Woods. Although the distance of this route is similar to the fastest route at 116 miles, a picturesque drive through the countryside and small towns slows down progress. Take this route when traveling at a leisurely pace and have some time to enjoy the scenery.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic patterns considerably impact the amount of time it takes to travel to Lake of the Woods from Baltimore. During peak traffic hours, it can take up to an hour or more longer. Traffic is heaviest on weekday mornings from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and weekday evenings from 4 to 6:30 p.m. So plan accordingly to hit the road at off-hours traffic.

  • Lowest Traffic Times: Weekdays after 8:30 p.m., weekends before 10 a.m.

  • Peak Traffic Times: Weekdays from 7-9:30 a.m., 4-6:30 p.m.

Final Considerations

The time it takes to drive from Baltimore, Maryland, to Lake of the Woods, Virginia, depends on several factors, including the route you choose and the time of day you travel. Although the distance of the fastest route is more extended, it may require less time if traveled under optimal traffic conditions. If you have the time and enjoy driving, take the scenic route and enjoy the beautiful countryside. So, plan your trip according to your preference, and have a safe and enjoyable journey!