Bethesda to Ellicott City: How Long Does the Drive Take?

If you live in Bethesda, Maryland and are planning a trip to nearby Ellicott City, you'll want to know how long it takes to get there. Traffic patterns and the route you choose can both affect driving times, so here's a breakdown of options and estimated driving times to help you plan your journey.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking for the fastest way to get from Bethesda to Ellicott City, take MD-32 W. This route is an efficient 14.6 miles in length and takes approximately 20 minutes without traffic. During peak traffic times, however, expect your drive to increase to 30-40 minutes. The quickest route is through State Hwy 97 and MD-32 W.

Alternative Route

If you prefer an alternative route with scenic views, take MD-28 W and MD-97 S. This route is approximately 18.5 miles in length and takes approximately 25 minutes without traffic. During peak traffic times, expect your drive to increase to 35-45 minutes. Keep in mind that you'll need to drive through downtown Olney, which can add a few minutes to your travel time.

The Slowest Route

On rare occasions, you might find yourself in a situation where you simply can't avoid taking the slowest route, such as when there is road construction, and the only road open is the MD 108 west to Ellicott City. This route, which goes for approximately 16 miles, takes you around pretty much everything in your way. Consequently, you can expect your trip to take longer than usual, between 40 and 50 minutes without traffic. During peak traffic times, expect your drive to increase to over 1 hour.

Regardless of which route you take, it's essential to plan accordingly enabling you to avoid rush hours. Understanding the roadways around you and making the right decision promptly can help save you a significant amount of travel time. We hope you enjoy your trip from Bethesda to Ellicott City!