Road-Tripping: How Long It Takes to Drive from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO

Are you planning a road trip from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO? The distance between these two cities is approximately 450 miles and takes around 7 hours to drive. However, traffic is the most significant factor in determining how long it will take you to reach your destination. Here’s everything you need to know about the time it takes to drive from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The two primary routes from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO are the I-25 N and the US-285 N. The I-25 N is the fastest and most direct route, with a distance of approximately 442 miles. This route takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes without stops. The US-285 N, on the other hand, adds an additional 30 miles, bringing the distance to around 472 miles. This route takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes without stops.

Traffic Patterns

If you leave Albuquerque, NM early in the morning, you may be able to avoid heavy traffic on the I-25 N. However, if you leave during peak hours, you will likely experience traffic congestion, especially in the city center and near major highways. The US-285 N route tends to be less congested than the I-25 N, but it can still be affected by peak hours.

The Best Time to Drive

The best time to drive from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO is during off-peak hours. If you can manage to leave early in the morning or late at night, you could avoid traffic and get to your destination faster. It's essential to keep in mind that driving during holiday weekends or peak tourist season could lead to longer travel times.

How to Calculate Driving Time

To calculate your driving time, you can use an online mapping tool like Google Maps or MapQuest. These tools provide accurate estimates based on traffic patterns and other factors. For example, if you take the I-25 N route on a weekday at 7 AM, it would take you around 7 hours and 30 minutes to reach Denver. However, if you chose to leave at 11 PM, the drive would only take around 6 hours and 20 minutes.

Overall, if you don't mind driving long distances, taking a road trip from Albuquerque, NM to Denver, CO is an excellent adventure. By knowing the fastest and slowest routes and understanding traffic patterns, you can make your trip a lot less stressful and get to your destination faster.