Road Trip from Arkansas to Maryland: The Fastest and Slowest Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Arkansas to Maryland? Do you want to know how long it takes to drive from one state to another? Well, look no further! In this blog post, we're going to explore the different routes and travel times to help you plan your journey.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Arkansas to Maryland is via the I-40 E and I-81 N. This route is approximately 985 miles long, and you can expect to spend around 15 hours on the road. However, this time can vary depending on traffic and your driving speed.

If you're looking for the fastest route, you'll want to avoid traveling in peak traffic hours. During rush hour times, expect the duration of the journey to be extended by an hour or two.

The Slowest Route

If you're not in a hurry and want to enjoy the scenery, take the slowest route via the US-412 E and the US-50 E. Although it's the longest route at around 1,200 miles, this scenic route takes you through the Ozark National Forest, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Shenandoah Valley.

Despite the longer distance, the time taken to go this route isn't as drastically different from the faster route. This drive takes an estimated 18-20 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

The Overall Travel Time

Travel time between the two states can be affected by traffic conditions, road conditions, and your driving speed. As mentioned earlier, the fastest route takes 15 hours, while the slowest route takes up to 20 hours.

I-40 is known to be one of the busiest roads in the state of Arkansas. So, to avoid traffic congestion, try to drive before 6 AM and after 8 PM. It's important to factor in that Washington DC traffic can get congested between 2 PM and 8 PM, causing delays on your journey. However, if you can avoid these peak hours, you can reach your destination much quicker.

Conclusion

Now that you know the options, it's up to you to decide which route you want to take to get from Arkansas to Maryland. Whether you're looking for a leisurely road trip or a quick journey, both routes have their advantages.

Creating a solid plan is the key to making the most of your trip and managing your time effectively. You'll want to factor in things like traffic, comfort stops, and overnight stays if you're following the slowest route.

Remember: slow and steady wins the road trip! With some careful planning, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable journey from Arkansas to Maryland.