The Ultimate Road Trip: Driving from Baltimore to Tucson
Buckle up and turn up your favorite playlist, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling journey from Baltimore to Tucson. This exciting cross-country road trip covers a distance of 2,234 miles, crossing through 9 different states over the course of 30 hours. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop in your car and explore the beautiful landscapes and scenery that the United States has to offer. Here’s all you need to know about the best routes to take, distances, and approximate driving times.
Fastest and Slowest Routes
The fastest way to get to Tucson from Baltimore is to take the I-70 West from Baltimore to St. Louis, then switch to the I-44 West route to Oklahoma City. From there, drive south on the I-40 until you reach the I-17, which leads straight into Tucson. This route covers a distance of 2,235 miles and takes approximately 29 hours of driving time. Of course, keep in mind that this is dependent on low to no traffic on the roads
On the other hand, the slowest way to get to Tucson is taking the scenic route that passes through several national parks. Start by taking the I-70 West out of Baltimore to Denver, CO, then drive south on the I-25 to Santa Fe, NM. From there, head west on US-60 to explore national parks such as Petrified Forest, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park on the way to Tucson. This route covers a distance of 2,617 miles, takes approximately 41.5 hours of driving time and is best for those looking to make a few stops and take their time enjoying the scenery.
Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns
Although distance plays a considerable role in determining the driving time to Tucson, traffic patterns pose a significant effect on time. The driving time significantly differs depending on the traffic patterns, but here is a breakdown on approximate time taken based on low and peak traffic times.
Assuming minimal traffic, you can cover the fastest route to Tucson from Baltimore in approximately 29 hours’ drive. However, during peak times (holiday seasons), the drive can take up to 38 hours, with the slow-moving traffic adding up to 9 hours to the total time. Taking the scenic route may also take an extra hour due to the few speed limits on some national parks, with a typical driving time of 42 hours during peak seasons.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Baltimore to Tucson is a thrilling adventure worth every mile covered. With the two routes, travelers have an opportunity to either take the fastest route or take their time exploring stunning national parks across the country. If you’re considering taking this cross-country road trip, this guide will come in handy in helping you plan your time accordingly. Get your car serviced, carry enough essentials, and start your long journey to Tucson. Happy travels!