Road Trip: Bloomington to Scottsdale - How Long Does it Take?

There’s nothing quite like a road trip to bond with friends and create lasting memories. But before you head out, it’s crucial to understand the time commitment. In this blog post, we’ll break down the time it takes to drive from Bloomington, Indiana, to Scottsdale, Arizona, so you can plan a route that works best for you.

The Fastest Route: I-44 W

The quickest route from Bloomington, Indiana, to Scottsdale, Arizona, is via I-44 W. This route covers a distance of 1,632 miles and typically takes around 24 hours with ideal driving conditions and minimal pit stops. However, traffic plays a significant role in the final drive time.

During peak traffic hours, this route can take up to 27 hours due to traffic congestion in the cities along the way. However, if you plan accordingly and drive during off-peak hours, you can make it in 22 hours. Keep in mind; driving for this amount of time can be exhausting and requires a proper rest schedule.

The Scenic Route: I-70 W and US-89 S

If you’re looking for a scenic drive to Scottsdale, take I-70 W and US-89 S. Although this route covers a greater distance of 1,860 miles, it’s worth it for the breathtaking views and landmarks. From lush green forests, beautiful red canyons, and the vast openness of Utah’s desert, the views on this route are unparalleled.

The average drive time on this route is about 29 hours, but it varies based on traffic. During peak hours, this route can take up to 33 hours, while early morning or late-night driving can decrease the driving time to 27 hours.

The Slowest Route: US-50 W and US-60 W

The slowest and longest route clocks in at 2,147 miles, covering US-50 W and US-60 W to Scottsdale. Although this route takes more time, it provides scenic spots worth stopping for. This route's average drive time is around 35.5 hours, but due to long stretches of deserted roads and limited driving options, it can take up to 40 hours.

Traffic is not typically a major issue on this route, so the length of time is mostly decided by pit stops and rests needed in between.

The Bottom Line

As always with road trips, it's better to plan for the unexpected and give extra buffer time during travel. Although it’s tempting to take the fastest route, it’s not always the most enjoyable option. If you can spare the extra day, consider taking one of the scenic routes and unwinding at a few stops along the way.

Whichever route you choose, remember to drive safely, obey traffic laws, and enjoy the journey!