Road trip from Bemidji, Minnesota to Portales, New Mexico

Are you dreaming of a perfect road trip from Northern Minnesota to Southern New Mexico? Whether it's the natural wonders, historical sites or just a change of scenery you're after, we've got you covered!

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Bemidji to Portales is to take I-29 South to Sioux Falls, then I-90 West through South Dakota to Wyoming. From Wyoming, take I-25 South all the way to Albuquerque, then head East on I-40 until you reach your final destination. The whole drive should take approximately 21 hours and cover a distance of roughly 1,450 miles.

To avoid traffic and make the most of your journey, leave early in the morning or do most of your driving at night. Doing so will ensure you avoid the rush hour traffic and give you the chance to appreciate the lovely scenery along the way.

The Slowest Route

If you're looking for a more scenic route, take MN-371 South and MN-210 West to Brainerd, then continue along US-71 until you reach Kansas City. From there, head West on I-70 and once you enter Colorado, take US-40 until you reach Albuquerque. Then make your way to Portales by driving East on I-40.

This path covers approximately 1,700 miles and will take roughly 29 hours. While scenic, this route will add time to your drive time, so factor in more time if you choose to take this route.

Time of Travel

Peak traffic times should be taken into consideration when planning your road trip. If you leave during the middle of the day or in the evening after work, expect traffic delays that could add extra hours to your trip.

The best time to drive is early in the morning or at night when traffic is lighter and the roads are at their quietest. If you've never driven during these hours before, be sure to check the weather alerts as you never know what might happen on the roads after dark.

Tips for the Road

Remember to pack all essentials for your journey. Pack a cooler with snacks, drinks, and a couple of meals to eat along the way. Take turns driving, so everyone gets a chance to rest between long stretches of driving.

Plan your stopping points or hotels ahead of time and include time in your schedule for bathroom breaks, food, and sightseeing. Keep in mind that each driver is different, and driving times vary with each route, so allow for extra time if you wish to see anything along the way.

So, whether you decide to take the quickest or the slowest route, remember that the time you take to enjoy your journey is entirely up to you!