Road Tripping from Atlanta to Seattle: How Long Will it Take?

Are you itching to get to Seattle but wondering how long it will take you to drive? Well, look no further than this guide! There are a few routes to choose from, ranging in length and travel time, so let's dive in and explore your options.

Route Options

The Fastest Route: I-20 W and I-25 N

If you're looking to get to Seattle as quickly as possible, take the I-20 W and I-25 N route. This route runs through Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and into Washington. The distance from Atlanta to Seattle is about 2,680 miles, and with no stops, it would take about 40 hours to drive. However, realistically, you'll likely need to take some breaks, so plan for more time.

At peak traffic times, it could take up to 50 hours, so it's best to avoid driving during rush hour. On the other hand, if you're able to avoid heavy traffic, you could cut down on your travel time by a few hours.

The Slowest Route: US-2 W

If you're looking for a more scenic route, take US-2 W. This route runs through Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and into Washington. The distance from Atlanta to Seattle is about 3,400 miles, so if you drive straight through, it would take about 50 hours. However, this route has plenty of attractions and amazing views, so factor in extra time for stops and sightseeing.

At peak traffic times, this route could take up to 60 hours to drive, depending on which cities you pass through. If you're in no rush to get to Seattle, take your time and enjoy the scenery!

The Middle Ground: I-40 W and I-5 N

If you're looking for a good balance between speed and scenery, take the I-40 W and I-5 N route. This route runs through Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, and into Washington. The distance from Atlanta to Seattle is about 2,900 miles, so if you drive straight through, it would take about 44 hours. However, this route has plenty of attractions and beautiful sights, so you may want to plan for extra stops and time.

At peak traffic times, this route could take up to 55 hours, so it's best to plan accordingly. To cut down on your travel time, try to avoid driving during rush hour.

Bottom Line

No matter which route you choose, the trip from Atlanta to Seattle is a long one. Plan for plenty of breaks and prepare your vehicle accordingly. Keep in mind that driving during peak traffic times could add several hours to your travel time, so it's best to plan your route and itinerary carefully. Happy travels!