The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Bellingham to Richland, Washington

Are you planning a road trip from Bellingham to Richland, Washington? Great news! The route offers stunning views of the Pacific Northwest, including high desert landscapes and mountain ranges. But before you hit the road, it's important to plan your route and schedule based on the distance and traffic to make your trip smooth. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the different options for driving from Bellingham to Richland, along with the estimated times and distances for each route.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The most direct route from Bellingham, to Richland is via I-90 east. This route covers approximately 280 miles and takes around 4.5-5 hours to complete, depending on traffic. Another route you may consider is the slower, yet often more beautiful Highway 2 to Wenatchee, and then Highway 28 to George, and ultimately down to Interstate 90. This route adds around 100 miles to the trip and takes a little longer. Be aware that during winter months, Highway 2 can become more treacherous than the readily managed I-90. So, it's essential to plan the route carefully based on your time, preferences, and road conditions.

Time It Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

The driving time from Bellingham to Richland can vary depending on traffic patterns. Typically, it takes around 4.5-5 hours to complete the trip. However, during peak traffic times, such as holidays and weekends, you may need to add an additional 30-60 minutes to your driving time due to congestion. Conversely, during less busy times a fresh driver can complete the drive in just under 4 hours.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip, it's important to consider the different times you'll be on the road and plan your route accordingly. You'll want to check the weather updates and road conditions ahead of time if you plan a winter or springtime trip. In addition, be sure to review the route's rest areas and plan for necessary breaks to rest, stretch your legs, and grab something to eat. And, don't forget to capture the stunning views of the Pacific Northwest.

In summary, driving from Bellingham to Richland is a picturesque trip worthwhile taking time to explore. Choose the route that suits you best, plan for traffic and different terrain, and don't forget to look out for potential photo ops during the drive.

Happy road tripping!