A Road Trip from Arizona to Arkansas: The Journey and Time it Takes

Have you been contemplating going on a road trip from Arizona to Arkansas? Whether it's for a family vacation, or a cross-country move, it's essential to plan your route and have an idea of how long your journey will take. Here we will explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of that route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Route Options

There are several routes you can take to get from Arizona to Arkansas, with varying distances and travel times. One of the most direct routes is to take Interstate 40 East, which stretches across the southern United States. This route is approximately 1,200 miles and can take anywhere from 19 to 21 hours, depending on traffic. The best time to travel this route would be on weekends, early mornings, or late nights when there is less traffic.

For those looking for a more scenic drive, consider taking Highway 89A and Highway 412. This route has breathtaking views, but it adds an additional 500 miles to your journey, making the total distance around 1,700 miles. Additionally, this route has several winding roads and hills, making it a slower and more challenging drive. It can take anywhere from 25 to 30 hours, depending on traffic patterns.

Time and Traffic

The time it takes to travel from Arizona to Arkansas depends largely on traffic. Peak hours in cities like Dallas, Amarillo, and Little Rock can add several hours to your journey. As a rule of thumb, avoid traveling during rush hour (7 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 6 pm) or on major holidays when traffic is heavy.

When traveling on the I-40 East route, the estimated driving time at peak hours is roughly 21 hours and 30 minutes. Whereas, during low-traffic periods, it can take about 18 hours and 30 minutes. This difference in time is due mainly to the heavy traffic in cities like Oklahoma City or Memphis.

On the other hand, if you take Highway 89A, Hwy 412 route, the estimated driving time during peak hours would be approximately 30 hours and 20 minutes. During low-traffic hours, it takes about 25 hours. Therefore, when taking a more extended and less-traveled route, it can make sense to drive through the night.

Final Thoughts

Whether you opt for convenience or for a scenic route, knowing the estimated driving time and traffic patterns is essential when preparing for your road trip. Regardless of which route you choose, ensure that your vehicle is ready for a long drive, hydrate frequently, and take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Overall, the drive from Arizona to Arkansas is a lengthy but beautiful one, covering from mountains to deserts, and from flatlands to hills. With proper preparation, a positive attitude, and a great playlist, this trip can be an adventure of a lifetime.