Time It Takes To Drive From Barnesville to Benson
Are you planning a road trip from Barnesville, Minnesota to Benson, Minnesota? Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or visiting family and friends, it's always good to have an idea of how long the journey will take. In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, their distances, and the estimated driving times based on traffic patterns.
Fastest Routes
Route 1: US-52 S and US-12 W (94 miles) - This is the fastest route, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes with average traffic. Begin by taking US-52 S towards Moorhead, then merge onto US-12 W towards Fergus Falls. You'll pass through beautiful scenic areas and small towns, making for a pleasant drive.
Route 2: I-94 W (119 miles) - This route is slightly longer but may be quicker depending on traffic conditions. Take I-94 W from Barnesville and continue until Exit 61 for MN-29 N towards Alexandria. Merge onto MN-29 N and drive until you reach Benson. If traffic is flowing smoothly, expect a driving time of approximately 2 hours.
Slowest Routes
Route 3: County Road 16 W (104 miles) - If you prefer avoiding highways and enjoying a more leisurely drive, this route might be up your alley. Start by taking County Road 16 W from Barnesville, and continue on MN-9 W and MN-104 W until you reach Benson. The driving time for this scenic route can vary depending on traffic, but usually takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Route 4: County Road 17 W (121 miles) - For those seeking a longer drive with a peaceful rural atmosphere, this route may be worth considering. Begin by taking County Road 17 W from Barnesville, then continue on MN-9 W and MN-104 W to Benson. With light traffic, expect a driving time of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Traffic Patterns
The estimated driving times mentioned so far have been based on average traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, these times can significantly increase. Rush hour traffic or events along the routes may cause delays, especially on the busier highways. It's always a good idea to check for current traffic updates before hitting the road.
At peak traffic times, such as weekday mornings and afternoons, expect an additional 30-45 minutes on Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3. With these possible delays, driving times could increase to around 2 hours and 30 minutes for Route 1, 2 hours and 45 minutes for Route 2, and 3 hours for Route 3.
On the other hand, driving during off-peak hours can offer a smoother journey with less congestion. If you're an early riser or prefer traveling late at night, these routes might take significantly less time. During low traffic times, subtract approximately 15-30 minutes from the estimated driving times mentioned earlier.
Remember, these times are approximate and can vary based on your driving habits, road conditions, and unexpected circumstances. It's always best to give yourself some extra wiggle room and enjoy the journey!
Safe travels, and have a fantastic time exploring the beautiful roadways between Barnesville and Benson!