The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Albuquerque, NM to El Paso, TX

If you're planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to El Paso, Texas, you might wonder how long the drive will take. The distance between the two cities is about 274 miles, depending on the route you take. The good news is that you have a few options as far as routes go, which can impact your driving time. Here's everything you need to know about how long it takes to drive from Albuquerque to El Paso.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Albuquerque to El Paso is via I-25 S and I-10 W. This route covers a distance of around 282 miles and takes about 4 hours without any traffic. However, keep in mind that this route can get very crowded during peak traffic hours, which can add extra time to your overall driving time.

The Scenic Route

If you want to take in the stunning scenery of New Mexico and parts of Texas, the more scenic route may be the best option. This route takes you along I-25 S, then merges onto I-10 W near Las Cruces. This route covers a distance of around 303 miles and takes close to 5 hours to complete. However, the extra time is well worth it if you want to enjoy the views along the way.

Low Traffic Times

If you want to beat the traffic, it's best to opt for driving during low traffic times. The best times to travel would be during the weekdays, and most certainly, avoid driving early morning and in the evenings. On average, expect about 4-5 hours of travel from Albuquerque to El Paso.

High Traffic Times

If you're traveling during peak traffic hours, there's a high possibility of encountering heavy traffic and construction, especially on the I-25 and I-10 interchange. In this case, you may want to budget for at least an additional hour of travel time. Hitting the road early during peak hours of traffic may also help to avoid heavy traffic.

In conclusion, driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to El Paso, Texas can take anywhere from 4 to 5 hours depending on your choice of route and whether you're driving during peak traffic hours. The best option is to allow yourself enough time and always check traffic reports before hitting the road. Safe travels!