The Great Drive from Boise to Breckenridge: How Long Will It Take?

If you're planning a road trip from Boise, Idaho, to Breckenridge, Colorado, you might be wondering how long the drive will take. While the exact time will depend on various factors like weather, traffic, and route, we've put together this guide to give you a general idea of what to expect.

The Fastest Route Is...

If you're looking for the fastest route from Boise to Breckenridge, you'll want to take I-84 east to Salt Lake City, then catch I-80 east to Rawlins, Wyoming. From there, take the CO-9 highway south to Breckenridge. This route will cover a distance of approximately 780 miles. In optimal traffic conditions, you can expect to complete this drive in about 12 hours and 30 minutes.

Don't Overlook the Scenic Route

While the fastest route has its merits, you might also want to consider taking a more scenic route. Head south on State Highway 75 towards Ketchum and Sun Valley before hopping on US-93 and heading east towards Twin Falls. From there, take I-84 east and follow the same path to Rawlins, WY and then take the CO-9 south to Breckenridge. This route covers approximately 900 miles, but the stunning views might just be worth the extra time. You can expect to complete this drive in about 13 hours and 30 minutes under good road conditions.

Be Prepared for Heavy Traffic

Keep in mind that these estimates are based on ideal road conditions with no traffic or other delays. However, heavy traffic or road closures can impact your travel time, so it's always best to be prepared. One area to watch out for is around the Salt Lake City area, where rush-hour congestion can add significant time to your journey.

Plan Your Time Wisely

When planning your trip, it's important to remember that the estimate times in this blog are general and may vary based on traffic, weather, or other factors. It's always a good idea to give yourself a buffer of a few extra hours to account for any unexpected delays. Also consider that stopovers for food, gas, or bathroom breaks may add additional time to the total drive time.

The Final Word

Whether you're headed to Breckenridge for a ski vacation or just to experience the beautiful Rocky Mountain landscapes, the drive from Boise can be long but enjoyable. Consider the fast route for speed, or the scenic route for more beautiful views, and be sure to leave extra time in your schedule to account for heavy traffic or unexpected stops. Happy travels!