Navigating Washington State: How Long Does it Take to Drive from Bonney Lake to Stanwood?

As a resident of Washington State, it's important to know the best routes for getting from place to place. With a drive time of just over an hour, getting from Bonney Lake to Stanwood is doable in a day trip. But, with traffic and road conditions always a factor, it's helpful to know the lay of the land. Here's what you need to know.

Fastest Route: South on I-5

The fastest route from Bonney Lake to Stanwood is surprisingly simple: head straight down I-5. You'll cover a total of 80 miles. Assuming you're driving at non-peak traffic hours, the trip should take you about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Traffic and road conditions can add time and stress to your drive. During peak traffic hours (7am-9am and 4pm-6pm), you can expect that drive time to be closer to 2 hours. Similarly, traveling on weekends can also add unexpected traffic hurdles.

Alternate Route: East on Highway 410, North on Highway 165

For a more scenic route that will take you through the heart of the Cascade Mountains, take Highway 410 east until you reach Highway 165, then head north towards Stanwood. This route covers a total of 100 miles. The natural wonder of the Cascades is worth the extra drive time. Traveling at non-peak traffic hours, you'll enjoy a two-hour scenic drive. But be warned: road conditions can vary depending on the season. Summer and fall are the best times to travel on this route. During winter, snow and icy roads can cause delays and detours.

Slowest Route: Northwest on County Roads

While this route isn't the most efficient in terms of time and distance, it does offer a more leisurely driving experience. Take County Road 162 out of Bonney Lake, then follow it north until you reach Stanwood. While this route only covers 60 miles, the drive time can be quite long. Expect the drive to take around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Road Tripping in Washington State

With so many great places to explore in Washington, it's important to know the best ways to get around. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist, knowing your options for travel can make all the difference. So, go ahead and hit the open road. There's plenty to see and do in the beautiful State of Washington.