Road Trip: Driving from Bend, OR to Hayward, CA

Looking for an adventure from Bend, OR to Hayward, CA? We’ve got you covered with all the information you need to make your journey hassle-free. From the fastest routes to the most scenic drives and everything in between, sit back and relax as we guide you through the ins and outs of this popular road trip.

Fastest Route: I-5 S

The quickest route from Bend, OR to Hayward, CA is via Interstate 5 (I-5) South. Covering a distance of 485 miles, this drive takes approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes. This route takes you through the heart of California and the Central Valley.

To get the most out of this route, we recommend starting your journey early in the day and avoiding heavy traffic times. At peak hours, traffic can cause delays on I-5, so timing is everything. At low traffic times, you can expect to arrive in Hayward in just under 8 hours.

Scenic Route: US-97, HWY 20, HWY 101

Looking for a more scenic route from Bend to Hayward? Look no further than US-97, which takes you through the stunning Deschutes National Forest and the towering mountains of the Cascade Range. Then, take a right onto Highway 20 towards the coast in Newport, OR. From Newport, follow Highway 101 south towards Hayward.

Covering a distance of 642 miles, this drive takes approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes without any stops. However, with the breathtaking scenery along the way, we recommend taking your time to explore and enjoy the journey.

Slowest Route: OR-58 W

If time is not a concern and you’re looking to take the slower, scenic route, take OR-58 W towards Eugene, OR. From there, follow I-5 S and then take US-101 S towards Hayward.

Covering a distance of 717 miles, this drive takes approximately 14 hours and 15 minutes without any stops. This route will take you through the beautiful Willamette National Forest and the stunning Oregon coastline, but be sure to plan for ample rest stops along the way.

Bottom Line

No matter which route you choose, driving from Bend, OR to Hayward, CA can be an adventure. Keep in mind, driving times will depend on traffic patterns and weather, so it’s always best to plan ahead and check for any road closures or construction updates before hitting the road. Whether you’re in a hurry or just taking your time, we hope this guide has helped you plan your next road trip!