Driving from Beverly Hills to Santa Clarita: Which Route Should You Take?

If you're planning a trip from the glamorous city of Beverly Hills to the picturesque Santa Clarita, you might be wondering about the best way to get there. With a variety of routes available, it's important to consider both distance and driving time, especially when unpredictable traffic patterns come into play. In this blog post, we'll explore three different routes and provide estimates for how long each one might take during peak traffic and low traffic times.

Route 1: The Fastest (but Busiest) Path

The fastest route from Beverly Hills to Santa Clarita is via the I-405 N and I-5 N freeways. Covering a distance of approximately 40 miles, this route can normally be completed in around 45 minutes with clear roads. However, during peak traffic hours, which usually fall between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM in the morning and 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM in the evening, the drive time can extend up to 1.5 to 2 hours. On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid heavy traffic, driving during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late at night, can cut your journey time down to about 30-35 minutes.

Route 2: The Scenic Detour

For those who prefer a more leisurely drive, taking a scenic route through the scenic Santa Monica Mountains could be a great option. Starting from Beverly Hills, you would head northwest on Mulholland Drive, enjoying the beautiful views as you wind through the hills. This route covers a distance of approximately 45 miles and typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. Keep in mind that traffic on Mulholland Drive can be slow at times, especially during weekends and holidays, so it's advisable to check real-time traffic updates before setting off.

Route 3: The Expressway Travel

Another popular route from Beverly Hills to Santa Clarita is to take CA-170 N followed by CA-14 N. Covering a distance of approximately 33 miles, this route is relatively shorter than the other options. Under normal traffic conditions, it can typically be completed in around 40-45 minutes. However, during peak traffic, such as during rush hour or major events, the travel time could double, reaching up to 1.5 hours. If you're able to plan your trip during times of low traffic, you'll likely be able to enjoy a smooth journey of around 30 minutes, making this route a favorable choice.

In conclusion, the driving time from Beverly Hills to Santa Clarita can vary significantly depending on the route chosen and the time of day. The fastest route via the I-405 N and I-5 N freeways is the most time-efficient, especially outside of peak traffic hours. If you're looking to enjoy scenic views and don't mind a longer drive, the Mulholland Drive option may be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a relatively shorter journey and are willing to gamble with traffic conditions, the CA-170 N and CA-14 N expressway route might be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision is yours, so weigh the factors carefully and plan your trip accordingly for a hassle-free drive. Safe travels!