Road Trip from Arlington, TX to Tucson, AZ

Are you planning a road trip from Arlington, Texas to Tucson, Arizona? Well, you're in for a real treat! The drive takes you through some beautiful scenery and offers miles of open road to enjoy. Of course, the biggest question on your mind is probably, "How long will it take to get there?" So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of travel times from Arlington to Tucson.

Quickest Route - 1036 miles

The fastest route from Arlington to Tucson is via I-20 and I-10, which is approximately 1036 miles. This route takes you through El Paso, Sedona, and Phoenix ‒ all beautiful places to stop and explore. At optimal traffic conditions, this route takes about 16 hours of driving. That's a long time behind the wheel! However, suppose you're traveling during peak rush hour traffic. In that case, you may be looking at up to 20 hours of travel time, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Scenic Route - 1550 miles

If you're interested in a more scenic option, take the long route via I-40 and I-17. This option is approximately 1550 miles, and it will take you through the Ozark National Forest and the Grand Canyon National Park. While this route is longer, it has some of the most beautiful scenery along the way! The drive takes you through some of the most treacherous mountain ranges in the US; therefore, it will take you an additional five hours compared to the quicker route, up to 21 hours at peak rush hour traffic. However, if you have a bit of extra time, this route is guaranteed to be a memorable experience.

Southern Route - 1204 miles

Finally, there's the southern route via I-10 entirely. This smooth and uninterrupted route is approximately $1,204$ miles and will take you through beautiful cities like El Paso, Las Cruces, and Phoenix. This option avoids the mountains and is a great option if you are not interested in the scenic route. For the most part, it will take around 17-18 hours of driving, depending on the traffic conditions. In better traffic times, add about 2-3 hours to your trip, whereas congestion could bring it up by another four hours.

Conclusion

As you can see, driving from Arlington, TX, to Tucson, AZ, offers you three different routes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. With some forward planning and smart timing of your travels, you can turn this long trek into something enjoyable and memorable. Just be sure to pack snacks and take plenty of stops to ensure you're not driving while tired!