Driving Time between Albuquerque, New Mexico and Bakersfield, California

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The Ultimate Guide To Driving From Albuquerque To Bakersfield

Are you planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Bakersfield, California? This journey will take you through some stunning landscapes. However, before you hit the road, you'll want to know how long it will take to get to your destination. The driving time between Albuquerque and Bakersfield varies depending on the route you choose, traffic patterns, and your driving speed. But don't worry, we've got you covered with this ultimate guide to driving from Albuquerque to Bakersfield.

The Fastest & Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Albuquerque to Bakersfield is via Interstate 40W and Interstate 15N. This route is approximately 826 miles long, and it takes around 12 hours to drive without any stops. However, keep in mind that this is the fastest route, but you'll miss out on some incredible views along the way.

If you're in the mood for a scenic drive, you can take the slower route through Arizona and Nevada via US-60W and US-95N. This route is about 904 miles long, and it takes around 14 hours to drive without any stops. You'll get to see some breathtaking scenery along the way, like the Mojave National Preserve, the Hoover Dam, and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Driving Time Based On Traffic Patterns

The time it takes to drive from Albuquerque to Bakersfield heavily depends on traffic patterns. Rush hour in major cities or accidents on highways can significantly increase your travel time. To give you an idea of the range of travel time, we've calculated the driving time for the two routes during peak traffic times and low traffic times.

Interstate 40W and Interstate 15N

  • Travel time in light traffic (without stops): 11 hours and 40 minutes
  • Travel time in moderate traffic (without stops): 12 hours and 30 minutes
  • Travel time in heavy traffic (without stops): 13 hours and 45 minutes

US-60W and US-95N

  • Travel time in light traffic (without stops): 13 hours and 10 minutes
  • Travel time in moderate traffic (without stops): 14 hours and 20 minutes
  • Travel time in heavy traffic (without stops): 15 hours and 45 minutes

The Verdict

Driving from Albuquerque to Bakersfield can be an enjoyable journey, but it's crucial to plan your route ahead of time. If you're looking for a shorter travel time, the fast route via Interstate 40W and Interstate 15N is the best option to take. However, if you're up for a scenic adventure, taking the slower but breathtaking route via US-60W and US-95N is your best bet. Regardless of your route, be mindful of traffic patterns, especially during peak traffic hours.

We hope that this guide has helped you in planning your road trip from Albuquerque to Bakersfield. Remember to take your time and enjoy the ride. Safe travels!