Road Trip Time: Driving from Arkansas to Nevada

Are you dreaming of hitting the open road and driving cross-country, but can’t decide which route to take? Well, if you are planning on a road trip from Arkansas to Nevada, then you are in luck! There are multiple routes that you can take that offer stunning scenery and attractions, and discovering which route to take depends on what you want to see and how much time you have.

Different Routes & Drive Times

Fastest Route: Through I-40 W and I-15 N – Distance 1,500 miles

This is by far the fastest route to get to Nevada from Arkansas accessible by driving I-40 W and I-15 N. Covering a distance of 1,500 miles on I-40 W and I-15 N, this route takes around 22-25 hours when driving non-stop. However, keep in mind that this route is likely to have congested traffic due to frequent tourists. If you are concerned about the driving time with road traffic, please check the traffic conditions on a reliable website manually.

Slowest Route: Through Historic Route 66 – Distance 2,300 miles

The Historic Route 66 is a popular option with many attractions like the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, and the Painted Desert. It runs parallel to I-40 W and the distance from Arkansas to Nevada is 2,300 miles, taking around 32-35 hours to drive. Although it may take longer to reach your destination, you will pass by numerous attractions and landmarks on a slower scenic route.

Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns

A drive from Arkansas to Nevada takes around 22-35 hours depending on the route you choose, but this may be affected by traffic. If you choose the fastest route, try planning your drive times outside peak hours and consider the following traffic patterns.

If you leave Arkansas in the early morning, you can drive without much traffic trouble until mid-day before you start seeing an increase in traffic. Once you join I-15, you face heavy traffic volumes that can quickly slow you down. The westbound traffic on I-15 can be a bit busier between noon and 3:30 p.m. After that, the traffic starts to pick up again after 6 p.m.

Final Thoughts

Both the I-40 W and I-15 N and the Historic Route 66 offer great experiences and attractions along the way. Although the I-40 W and I-15 N is the most direct route, it can be congested, and the Historic Route 66 may take longer, but it gives you a chance to see various fun sights. So, whether you have the wanderlust for new places, a need for entertainment, or just want to take a slow and steady road trip, both routes can be considered depending on your time. Before you go, heed our advice and check traffic patterns online, so you know what to expect before you hit the road. Happy driving!