Road Trip from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to Joplin, Missouri - Best Routes and Drive Times

Are you planning a road trip to Joplin, Missouri from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania? If yes, you might be curious about the best routes and driving times to reach your destination. In this blog post, I will help you find the best route and share some estimated driving times depending on the peak traffic and low traffic hours.

Fastest Routes

If you’re looking for the fastest way to reach Joplin, Missouri from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, then the I-70 W and the I-71 S are the quickest routes you can take. The total distance for this route is approximately 1,100 miles and it usually takes around 17 to 19 hours to drive in good weather conditions.

Another option is to take the I-80 W and the I-29 S route. This route is slightly longer than the previous one, with a distance of approximately 1,200 miles. However, it takes almost the same time for the journey, taking anywhere from 17 to 20 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Slowest Routes

If you have time on your hands and want to explore different cities along the way, then you can consider taking some of the slower routes. For instance, you can take the I-80 W and the I-55 S route, which is approximately 1,300 miles long. The journey could take you anywhere from 17 to 22 hours at peak traffic hours. However, it passes through some major cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and Springfield, allowing you to explore and enjoy the local culture along the way.

Another option is to take the I-68 W and the I-44 W route, with a distance of approximately 1,100 miles. This route could take you to some scenic regions, including the Appalachian Mountains and the Ozarks. However, it may also consume slightly more time, anywhere from 19 to 22 hours depending on traffic.

Peak Traffic vs Low Traffic Hours

The driving times mentioned above were calculated based on good weather and moderate traffic conditions. However, the traffic could be heavier during peak hours, which could affect your journey time and route. Therefore, it's essential to consider rush hour when you plan your journey.

For instance, if you take the I-70 W and the I-71 S route during peak hours, the journey could take longer, anywhere between 19 to 22 hours. Similarly, the I-80 W and the I-29 S route could take 20 to 23 hours, and the I-68 W and the I-44 W may take 22 to 24 hours due to traffic.

In contrast, if you choose to travel during low traffic hours, you could save some time. Typically, less traffic is observed between midnight and 5 am. Hence, you could save up to 2-3 hours of time depending on the route you choose.

In conclusion, with good planning, it's possible to make your road trip from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to Joplin, Missouri a memorable experience. Consider the length of the journey, the route you take, and the traffic conditions to ensure you have a hassle-free journey. Bon Voyage!