Taking a Road Trip from Baxter, MN to Billings, MT: Here's What You Need to Know

Summer is just around the corner, and with restrictions lifting, people are clamoring to stretch their legs and explore new areas. If you're looking for your next adventure, a road trip from Baxter, Minnesota to Billings, Montana might be just the thing. But before you hit the road, here are a few things you should know.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to get to Billings quickly, the fastest route is to take I-94 West. At just over 740 miles, this route will get you from Baxter to Billings in approximately 11 hours. Keep in mind that this is without stopping for breaks, food, or fuel, so factor in extra time accordingly. Additionally, the time it takes to get to Billings can be affected by traffic patterns, so it's worth knowing what to expect.

The Slowest Route

If you prefer a more scenic route, taking US-2 West is a great option. However, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time. This route is longer than I-94, measuring in at around 910 miles, and can take 14-15 hours to drive (again, not accounting for stops). However, the views of the Rocky Mountains more than make up for the extra time.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic can be a major factor when it comes to estimating drive times. No one wants to get stuck in a bottleneck when they're trying to reach their destination. In general, traffic is lighter in the morning and evening hours, but can get quite heavy in the mid to late afternoon. This is something to keep in mind when planning your route.

Low Traffic Time

If you're looking for the quickest possible route, you'll want to time your departure so you're not hitting major cities during rush hour. Leaving early in the morning or late at night can help you avoid heavy traffic while still making good time. A good option might be leaving around 3:00 or 4:00 in the morning when you'll have the roads all to yourself.

Peak Traffic Time

Conversely, if you're planning to take a more leisurely pace and stop to enjoy the scenery along the way, getting stuck in traffic might not be such a big deal. Just be sure to factor in extra time if you'll be driving during peak traffic times. Rush hour traffic tends to happen around 8:00 or 9:00 in the morning and around 4:00 or 5:00 in the evening. If you're planning to drive during these times, be prepared for slower going.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to get to Billings as quickly as possible or want to enjoy a leisurely drive through the mountains, planning your route and timing your departure can help make the trip smoother. With a little foresight, you can avoid the headache of traffic, take in some breathtaking views, and reach your destination safely and happily.