Road Trip: Driving from Atlanta to San Francisco

If you're considering a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to San Francisco, California, you're in luck—there are several routes to choose from! But before you start packing your bags, it's important to know the estimated driving time and distance for each route so you can plan accordingly.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest and most direct route to take is Interstate 40 West, which will take you through Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and finally California. This route covers a total distance of 2,396 miles and takes approximately 35 hours of non-stop driving. However, this doesn't factor in traffic or rest stops.

If you're willing to add on some extra miles and scenic routes, you can take Interstate 10 West through Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. This route covers a distance of 2,692 miles and takes approximately 39 hours of non-stop driving. This route also passes through some stunning landmarks such as the Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree National Park.

Of course, if you're in the mood for a more leisurely drive and want to take in some of America's natural beauty, you may want to take the historic Route 66 instead. The distance along this route is the same as I-40, but the trip will take you a little longer with its many roadside attractions and small towns.

Traffic and Drive Times

Now that you know the fastest and slowest routes, it's important to consider driving time based on traffic patterns. Rush hour traffic can often slow down your trip, and depending on your route, it could add hours to your drive time.

For I-40, peak traffic times are around big cities such as Nashville, Little Rock, Oklahoma City, and Albuquerque. If you're driving through these areas during rush hour, you could add an extra 2-4 hours to your total drive time. However, if you time your drive right and pass through outside of rush hour times, you could end up saving some valuable time.

Similarly, for I-10, you'll want to avoid peak traffic in places like Houston, El Paso, and Los Angeles. If you're driving through these areas during rush hour, you could add an extra 2-3 hours to your drive time. But if you're willing to drive through the night, this could be an easier option.

Overall, the average drive time for these routes is about 2-3 days, depending on traffic and how many stops you make. Don't forget to factor in time for rest stops, meals, and accommodations along the way. Whether you're in a rush to get to San Francisco or want to take your time exploring, there's a route that will suit your needs. Safe travels!