A Cross-Country Adventure: Driving from Bellingham, WA to Albany, NY

Are you considering a cross-country road trip from the West to the East coast of the United States? Starting in the beautiful Pacific Northwest town of Bellingham, Washington, and heading towards the historic and charming city of Albany, New York. It can be a thrilling adventure and a chance to explore the vast landscapes and vibrant cities that America has to offer. But how much time do you need to allocate for this journey?

The Fastest Route

Taking I-90 East is your fastest route to get from Bellingham to Albany. This route spans for approximately 2,785 miles and usually, without any traffic or unforeseen roadblocks, it would take you around 41 hours and 45 minutes or so to reach your destination. However, keep in mind that this driving duration does not account for pit stops, meals, or even sleep you may need on a multi-day drive.

The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and are looking for a scenic drive, taking the Northern route, I-94 East to I-90 East would be a great option. This route spans for approximately 3,200 miles. You'll find yourself going through Glacier National Park, the Badlands, Mount Rushmore, and the picturesque city of Chicago. But, of course, with more places to see, the travel duration can take longer. It may take a few hours more depending on traffic conditions, stopping for coffee or lunch breaks, or just to admire the views.

The Slowest Route

Taking a more Southern route, heading down to the West coast and then heading East will take longer, but it also means you can explore more of the country and avoid the cold winter weather that hits the North during the winter months is to take I-5 South to CA-99 East, then I-40 East to I-44 East and end in Albany. This route spans around 3,100 miles and can take about 49 and 54 hours - quite a difference than the fastest route.

It's important to remember that you should plan for traffic flow, rush hour, and even construction season when driving cross country. Peak traffic times tend to impact travel times more compared to off-peak hours, which is why planning your drive time is crucial. So for I-90 East, it's best to travel between 10 AM -12 PM when traffic is relatively mild, while the I-5 South, CA-99 East, I-40 East, and I-44 East could be best tackled during early weekdays or weekends between 7 PM and 9 PM pm.

So, there you have it. Driving from Bellingham, Washington, to Albany, New York can take roughly around 41-54 hours, depending on which route you choose and at what time. It's a fair hike, but with the right trip-planning and some time to stop and explore, the journey itself can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, what are you waiting for? Ready to hit the road?