Road Trip Tips: Birchwood, Wisconsin to Arvada, Colorado

Planning a road trip from Birchwood, Wisconsin to Arvada, Colorado is an exciting adventure that is worth the time and effort. With so many possible routes to take, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will be taking a closer look at the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, as well as the time it takes to drive from Birchwood to Arvada based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route: I-90 and I-25

The fastest and perhaps the most popular route is taking I-90 through South Dakota and then hopping on I-25 in Wyoming. This route covers 1,114 miles and takes around 17 hours of driving time. With clear roads and no traffic, you could make the trip in about 15 hours. However, it's important to note that driving through the mountains of Colorado can be slow-going, and bad weather can cause significant delays.

Slowest Route: US-53 and US-2

If you prefer a more scenic route, taking US-53 through Minnesota and then hopping on US-2 in Montana may be the better option. This route covers 1,222 miles and takes about 20 hours of driving time. Driving through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is beautiful, but it can be slow-going and add extra hours to travel time.

Time of Day Matters

Regardless of the route you choose, keep in mind that the time of day you choose to drive can greatly impact your travel time. Rush hour traffic can cause significant delays, especially in bigger cities like Minneapolis and Denver. If you're looking to avoid heavy traffic, consider leaving early in the morning or late at night.

Peak Traffic Times

If you're unable to avoid rush hour, it's helpful to know when peak traffic will occur. Rush hour in Minneapolis is typically between 7:30 am-9:00 am and 4:00 pm-6:00 pm on weekdays. In Denver, rush hour is typically from 7:00 am-9:00 am and 3:00 pm-6:00 pm on weekdays. Be sure to allow extra time for these peak traffic periods.

Low Traffic Times

On the other hand, if you're planning to take the fastest route, it may be best to avoid driving during peak snow season. Heavy snow and adverse driving conditions are common in South Dakota and Wyoming, particularly in November through March. Late spring, summer, and fall tend to offer the best driving conditions with minimal traffic.

In conclusion, it's important to consider your personal preferences and travel needs when choosing a route. Keep in mind the distance, time, and travel conditions based on the season and time of day you choose to drive. With careful planning and patience, your road trip from Birchwood to Arvada can be a smooth and enjoyable journey.