Driving Time between Atlanta, Georgia and Bakersfield, California

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Road Trip: Atlanta to Bakersfield - How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Bakersfield, California? Wondering how long it's going to take? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll break down the driving time for you based on different routes and traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Atlanta to Bakersfield is via I-40 W. The total distance is approximately 2,225 miles, and it will take you around 33 hours of driving time, assuming you don't make any stops and without factoring traffic patterns. This route is great if you want to get to your final destination as quickly as possible.

The Scenic Route

If you're looking to add some scenic views to your journey, take the I-80 W route. It will take you through some beautiful mountain ranges, including the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada. The distance is approximately 2,550 miles, and it will take you around 38 hours of driving. This route is perfect if you're not in a rush and want to take your time to enjoy the scenery.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic can make a huge difference in your driving time. To be safe, we suggest calculating your driving time in two scenarios:

  • Low Traffic Time - We consider this to be between 10 pm and 6 am. During these hours, most drivers are off the road. Therefore, traffic is usually light. So, for the I-40 W route, it will take around 29 hours to travel the 2,225 miles from Atlanta to Bakersfield. This route will take around 35 hours during the low traffic time.
  • Peak Traffic Time - This is typically between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. when most people are on the road. This means that traffic will be heavy, and your driving time will significantly increase. During these hours, the I-40 W route will take around 35-37 hours, while the I-80 W route will take around 42-45 hours.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, driving from Atlanta, Georgia to Bakersfield, California is quite a journey. It depends on factors like route, traffic patterns, and driving speed. So, before starting your trip, make sure to calculate your driving time based on the above information. And, don't forget to enjoy your journey. Safe travels!