The Drive from Big Lake to Brandon: A Guide to Your Travel Time

Are you planning a road trip from Big Lake, Minnesota to Brandon, South Dakota? While you may be eager to hit the road, it's essential to plan your route and consider your travel time. Not all routes are created equal, and traffic patterns can severely impact your drive time. In this post, we'll go over some of the different travel routes and highlight the travel time so you can plan your perfect itinerary.

The Fastest and Slowest Route Options

The fastest route to Brandon from Big Lake follows I-94 W all the way through to I-29 S. At a distance of 302 miles, this route typically takes around 4.5 hours to drive, but this will vary based on traffic conditions. If you're looking for a scenic route, you can take US-12 W; however, this route will take longer as it is 320 miles.

On the other hand, if you're looking to save time and don't mind paying a small toll fee, you can take US-10 W and follow US-71 S. This route is approximately 280 miles and typically takes three hours and forty-five minutes.

Driving Times Based on Traffic Patterns

If you're looking to avoid heavy traffic during your road trip, try to avoid hitting the road during peak rush hours, which are typically from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays. On weekends, travel times are less likely to be impacted by rush-hour traffic.

If you're traveling during peak hours, expect to add up to an hour to your travel time. During off-peak hours, you could potentially save up to an hour. Ultimately, it's essential to keep in mind the possibility of delays and plan accordingly.

Ideal Route for the Perfect Road Trip

Suppose you're looking for a more scenic route during your road trip. In that case, you could take US-12 W through Belgrade and Aberdeen, South Dakota, but this route will add an additional 18 minutes to your drive time. However, if you're not in a hurry and want a more scenic drive, this route may be perfect for you.

Another great option for travelers looking to enjoy the journey is US-10 W. This route follows along the Mississippi River and provides picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. While this route may take a bit longer than the fastest option, it's an excellent opportunity for some sightseeing or relaxation.

Conclusion

While planning a road trip can be stressful, don't forget to enjoy the journey. There is no one "right" option for traveling from Big Lake to Brandon. However, it's crucial to plan your route based on your preferences and travel time constraints. Whether it's the quickest or most leisurely route, there's no shortage of scenic drives to enjoy on this journey. We hope this guide has helped you plan your upcoming road trip. Happy travels!