The Ultimate Guide: Driving from Bend, Oregon to Baltimore, Maryland

Are you planning a long road trip from Bend, Oregon to Baltimore, Maryland? The route is approximately 2,800 miles, and it can take up to 40 hours of driving, depending on the route you choose and traffic patterns. In this blog post, we'll explore the different routes from Bend to Baltimore and give you an estimated driving time for each one.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Bend to Baltimore is to take the I-80 E and I-76 E, which will take you approximately 43 hours. You'll start by heading east on US-20 E and then turning onto I-80 E. This route will take you through cities such as Salt Lake City, Denver, and Omaha. Once you hit I-76 E, you'll drive through Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and finally arrive in Baltimore.

This route is the fastest because it's mostly on highways, and it avoids areas with lots of traffic and congestion. However, keep in mind that this route is quite long, and if you're traveling with children or pets, you may need to take more breaks.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a hurry and want to see some beautiful sights along the way, consider taking the more scenic route. Start by heading east on US-20 E, and then continue onto US-26 E. This route will take you through Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan.

Once you hit Michigan, you can choose to take I-90 E, which will take you through Cleveland and Pittsburgh, or continue on US-26 E, which will take you through Indiana and Ohio. Both routes eventually connect to I-70 E, which will take you to Baltimore.

Since this route involves more local roads and smaller highways, it will take you about 50 hours, but it will be worth it. You'll get to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, including Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and the Great Lake.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route is certainly not the best option if you're in a hurry, but it can be a good choice if you want to save money on gas and tolls. Start by heading east on US-20 E, and then turn onto US-30 E. From there, take US-287 S, and once you reach Denver, take I-70 E.

This route will take you through smaller towns in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming before reaching Denver. However, it may take up to 60 hours of driving time, depending on traffic. It's a more rural route, so you'll see fewer cities and more nature.

Summary

In conclusion, driving from Bend, Oregon, to Baltimore, Maryland, involves quite a long journey, no matter which route you choose. The fastest route will take you approximately 43 hours, while the scenic route may take up to 50 hours. The slowest route will take around 60 hours. Keep in mind that these estimates are based on ideal traffic and road conditions, so actual driving time may vary.

No matter which route you choose, make sure to plan ahead and take breaks often. Bring plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment options to make the journey more enjoyable. Safe travels!