Road Trippin' from Arkansas to Oklahoma: Here's How Long It'll Take You!

Are you planning a road trip from Arkansas to Oklahoma? Whether you're heading to a family gathering or a weekend getaway, it's essential to know how long it takes to drive between these two states. In this post, we'll take a look at the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of those routes, and how long it'll take you to drive at peak and low traffic times.

The Fastest Route - I-40 E and I-35 N

The fastest route from Arkansas to Oklahoma is via I-40 E and I-35 N. This route takes you through Little Rock, Conway, Russellville, Fort Smith, and Tulsa before reaching Oklahoma City. The total distance of this route is around 540 miles, and it takes approximately 8 hours to drive at normal speed.

When traveling on this route, traffic can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. During peak traffic times, such as rush hour in larger cities, the drive can take closer to 9 or 10 hours. On the other hand, if you hit the road during low traffic times, such as early in the morning or late at night, you could potentially trim an hour or two off your drive time.

Taking the Scenic Route - US-270 W

If you're looking to take the scenic route on your drive to Oklahoma, consider taking US-270 W. This route takes you through small Arkansas towns like Hot Springs, Mount Ida, and Waldron before crossing into Oklahoma near Mena. The total distance of this route is around 170 miles, and it takes approximately four hours to drive at normal speed.

As this route runs through smaller towns, the traffic is typically less congested than on the interstates. However, if you're traveling during peak tourist season or on a holiday weekend, you might experience some slowdowns on the busier stretches of this route.

The Slowest Route - US-183 N

While it's not the most direct route, taking US-183 N from Arkansas to Oklahoma is an option if you're looking for a more leisurely drive. This route takes you through small Oklahoma towns like Taloga and Fairview before crossing into Kansas and eventually heading back down into Oklahoma. The total distance of this route is around 470 miles, and it takes approximately 10 hours to drive at normal speed.

As this route runs through small towns and stretches of rural countryside, traffic is typically light to moderate. However, it's important to note that this route is not ideal for those in a hurry. While you won't run into any major traffic jams, the slower pace of the drive means it will take longer to reach your destination than via other routes.

Final Thoughts

As you plan your road trip from Arkansas to Oklahoma, keep in mind that the fastest route will likely be via I-40 E and I-35 N. However, if you're looking to take the scenic route, consider taking US-270 W. And if you're in no particular rush, you could always opt for US-183 N. No matter which route you choose, be sure to check for traffic updates and plan accordingly for peak traffic times to avoid any delays. Safe travels!