How Long Does It Really Take To Drive from Baltimore, MD to Wausau, WI?

So, you're planning a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland to Wausau, Wisconsin? Awesome! There are just a few things you'll want to keep in mind before you hit the open road. One of the most important things to consider is how long it will take you to get there. Let's dive into the details.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

When it comes to driving from Baltimore to Wausau, there are a few different routes you can take. The fastest route is generally to take I-70 West to I-76 West to I-80 West. This is a total distance of about 835 miles, and it will take you just over 12 hours to drive it without stopping. Of course, this assumes that you won't be traveling during peak traffic times, which can significantly slow you down.

If you'd rather take a more scenic route, you can opt to take the I-68 and I-79 route, which will take you through the gorgeous Appalachian Mountains. This trip is a bit longer, coming in at about 960 miles, but it will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.

Time Based on Traffic Patterns

One of the biggest factors that will affect how long it takes you to drive from Baltimore to Wausau is traffic. If you're traveling during peak traffic hours, you can expect your trip to take quite a bit longer. For instance, if you're taking the I-70 West to I-76 West to I-80 West route during a weekday rush hour, you could add another 2-3 hours to your drive time.

Conversely, if you're traveling during a low traffic time, you may be able to shave a few hours off of your trip. For instance, if you're driving during the middle of the night, you're likely to encounter much less traffic than during peak hours.

Plan Your Trip Accordingly

Ultimately, the time it will take you to drive from Baltimore to Wausau depends on a variety of factors. If you're looking to get there as quickly as possible and don't mind a more direct route, taking I-70 West to I-76 West to I-80 West is your best bet. Just be sure to avoid peak traffic hours if you want to get there in a reasonable amount of time.

If you're more interested in a scenic drive and don't mind taking a bit longer to get there, the I-68 and I-79 route is a great choice. Either way, be sure to plan your trip accordingly based on the time you have available and the traffic patterns you're likely to encounter along the way. Happy travels!