How Long Does it Take to Drive from Blue Springs, Missouri to Hays, Kansas?

Planning a cross-state trip from Blue Springs, Missouri to Hays, Kansas? There are a few different routes you can take, each with its own pros and cons. Depending on which route you select and the time of day you're driving, your travel time can vary quite a bit. Read on for a breakdown of the fastest and slowest routes, driving distances, and estimated travel times.

Route Options

Fastest Route

The fastest way to drive from Blue Springs, Missouri to Hays, Kansas is via I-70 W. Taking this route, the distance you'll cover is approximately 267.3 miles, and it should take you roughly 4 hours and 10 minutes to arrive in Hays. However, please note that traffic during peak hours, such as weekday rush hours or weekend getaways, may extend your travel time by up to 45 minutes.

Scenic Route

If you're in no particular rush and have time to explore some beautiful Midwest landscape, taking US-183 N would be a wise choice. This route consists of rolling prairies, sky-blue horizon, and some charming little towns; however, this is a longer route, covering approximately 320 miles, and it will take you an estimated 5 hours and 15 minutes to arrive in Hays.

The Combination Route

Another route option is to take US-56 W to I-70 W. This route is a combination of two, with a distance of approximately 275.7 miles and an estimated travel time of 4 hours and 15 minutes. Depending on what time of day you're driving, this route can get very busy as you get closer to I-70. Be sure to consider traffic patterns when heading out on this route.

High Traffic Times

As we touched on earlier, traffic congestion can add significant time to your journey, particularly if you're driving during peak rush hours. If you're traveling via I-70 W, we recommend avoiding driving during the week from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM as traffic is heaviest during these times. If you are planning your trip up during the weekends, Friday's rush hour often starts to build up around 2PM. It is best to travel outside of these hours for a smoother journey.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, whether it's the faster I-70W or the scenic US-183 N, the travel time from Blue Springs, Missouri to Hays, Kansas varies depending on which route you choose. You can expect to spend about 4-5 hours on the road, and that could be longer if you travel during peak traffic hours. Make sure to plan your route and keep an eye out for any anticipated delays before heading out. Safe travels!