"Road Tripping from Bend, OR to Susanville, CA"

When planning a road trip from Bend, Oregon to Susanville, California, a common question is “how far is it and how long does it take to drive?” There are a few variables involved, but we’ve gathered some helpful information to make that planning process easier.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route to get from Bend to Susanville is by taking US-97S, I-5S, and CA-44E. This route is 254 miles long and takes approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes with normal traffic. Conversely, the slowest route, which is also the most direct, would be to take OR-31S and CA-139S. The drive is 218 miles long and takes approximately 4 hours and 57 minutes with normal traffic.

Traffic Patterns

When hitting the road, you’ll want to factor in the traffic patterns to ensure a successful and timely trip. Typically, traffic in the summer months is a bit heavier, especially on the weekends. If you’re traveling during peak traffic times, the journey can take noticeably longer. But, if you’re hitting the road during off-peak hours or on a weekday, the traffic patterns are typically a lot lighter. We’ve calculated that it can take over 5 hours if you take the I-5S/CA-44E route during peak traffic hours. But, it’s been known to take as little as 4 hours during off-peak times.

Options and Drive Times

Another option to consider is taking the eastern route. This involves taking US-20E through Prineville then transitioning to OR-395S through Lakeview and eventually moving onto CA-139S. This route is 284 miles long and takes approximately 5 hours and 9 minutes with normal traffic. Even with a longer drive distance, it can be faster to take this route. If you’re aiming to avoid traffic, navigating the road can save you both time and hassle.

Regardless of the route you choose, it’s important to remember that the journey from Bend to Susanville is filled with magnificent scenery. From mountains and forests to deserts and valleys, there’s always something to admire along the way.

Overall, the time it takes to drive from Bend, Oregon to Susanville, California depends on several factors. The fastest route through I-5S/CA-44E takes approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes with normal traffic. However, the route through OR-31S and CA-139S is the most direct and takes just 15 extra minutes. No matter which route you choose, it’s important to factor in the traffic in order to plan your drive time effectively. All routes have their merits, and the journey promises to be full of stunning scenery.