Road Trip: Carmel-by-the-Sea to Glenwood Springs!

Are you planning a road trip from Carmel-by-the-Sea, California to Glenwood Springs, Colorado? This scenic drive can take you through some breathtaking landscapes. But before you hit the road, it’s important to plan your route and consider the travel time based on traffic patterns. In this post, we’ll provide you with all of the important details you need to know to make your trip perfect!

Fastest Routes

The fastest route from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Glenwood Springs is via I-5 N and I-70 E. This route spans a distance of approximately 1165 miles. With a smooth traffic flow, this drive can take around 17 hours. However, keep in mind that this is the fastest route, not necessarily the scenic one.

Another fast option is to take the CA-99 N route before connecting with I-5 N. This route is slightly longer, covering a distance of approximately 1200 miles. However, it is generally faster as the traffic conditions are smoother than some of the other routes. You can expect to spend around 17 hours on the road.

Slowest Routes

The slower but more scenic route is through US-101 N along the Pacific Coast. This route spans a distance of approximately 1410 miles. However, this journey is perfect if you want to experience the coast of California and the Pacific Northwest. Keep in mind that this route may slow down your travel time and you may need to add an extra day or two, depending on your stops!

Another scenic but slow option is to take the US-50 E route before connecting with I-5 N and I-70 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 1320 miles. Although the views are fantastic, it takes longer as you will pass through some mountainous areas. This could cause more traffic and congestion, adding an extra couple of hours to your journey.

Peak Traffic Time

If you plan your trip during peak traffic time, expect your travel time to be much longer than normal. Peak travel times include public holidays, long weekends, and summer holidays. Your 17-hour journey on a typical day could easily turn into 22 hours during peak times.

Low Traffic Time

Timing is everything when it comes to traveling. During low traffic times, you can save at least 3-4 hours of travel time on your journey. Plan your road trip during weekdays as there are fewer cars on the road, especially during working hours. When traffic is smoother, you could easily reach Glenwood Springs in approximately 15 hours!

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Glenwood Springs, Colorado depends on the route you take and the traffic patterns during peak or low traffic times. To ensure a smooth journey, plan for your trip early and consider the different routes available. Whether you choose the fast or scenic route, always keep your safety in mind and enjoy the journey!