Cruising from Bellingham to Tacoma: How Long Will it Take?

Are you planning to drive from Bellingham to Tacoma and wondering about the time it will take? Well, the answer to this question depends on several factors. The distance between these two cities is approximately 138 miles, and the duration of the journey varies based on the route you take and traffic conditions. Here's all you need to know about the drive time from Bellingham to Tacoma.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

If your goal is to reach Tacoma as quickly as possible, take Interstate 5 South. This is the fastest and most direct route, covering a distance of around 135 miles. During low traffic hours, you can cruise this route in around 2 hours. However, during peak traffic hours, the journey can take up to 3 hours.

But, if you want to take the scenic route, you can choose to drive on the Coastal Scenic Byway and enjoy the stunning views of saltwater bays and the Pacific Ocean. This route may cover a distance of up to 190 miles and take around 4 hours on a good day.

Time it Takes to Drive Based on Traffic Patterns

The time of day you choose to drive from Bellingham to Tacoma will play a significant role in the journey duration. During weekdays, traffic is usually heavy during rush hours (7 a.m - 9 a.m and 3 p.m - 6 p.m), making the drive take longer. However, on weekends and holidays, traffic is usually light, meaning that you can reach Tacoma much faster.

Which Route Is Best for You?

If you are short on time and just want to get to Tacoma quickly, the Interstate 5 South is the best route. However, if you're in no rush, you could take the Coastal Scenic Byway and enjoy the breathtaking views of the coastline. Regardless of which route you choose, consider your departure time during peak hours, and add extra time to your journey's duration to account for any unforeseen delays.

In conclusion, based on the time of day, route taken, and traffic, it can take anywhere between 2 to 4 hours to drive from Bellingham to Tacoma. So it's always advisable to plan your journey well in advance and consider all factors that can affect your journey's duration. Safe driving!