Which Route Should You Take? Driving From Aurora, Colorado to Bakersfield, California!

Do you need to drive from Aurora, Colorado to Bakersfield, California? You’re in for a beautiful drive, but there are a few things to consider before you hit the road. The distance is roughly 1,050 miles, and with different routes to choose from, it’s important to determine which is the fastest or most scenic. Keep reading for details and estimated driving times to help you find the best path!

Fast and Slow Routes

The quickest route to take is via I-70 E and I-15 S, taking around 17 hours to complete the journey. However, the most scenic route is taking I-25 S to US-285 S/Main St, and then taking I-40 W to Bakersfield, estimating a 21-hour drive time. This route takes you through the beautiful Pike National Forest and down into the paint mines of Colorado.

Alternatively, you could take the I-70 W route, which takes you through the snow-capped Rockies. This route is a gorgeous sightseeing journey, but it will take 21 hours of drive time. The slowest route to take would be to drive through Kansas and Oklahoma and take I-44 W, adding over 10 hours to the trip.

Time Based on Peak Traffic & Low Traffic

It’s important to take into consideration the traffic patterns along the route you choose. For those traveling during peak traffic times, the I-70 E and I-15 S route is still the quickest, as the roads are less busy overall. The estimated driving time for this route during peak traffic times is around 19 hours.

For those choosing scenic routes over speed, the best option is to take either I-25 S or I-70 W. However, the extra time added to your trip is significant if you factor in traffic during peak driving times. The driving time for I-25 S during peak traffic times is around 23 hours, while the driving time for I-70 W is around 22 hours during peak traffic.

Overall, keep these factors in mind when choosing which route to take from Aurora, Colorado to Bakersfield, California. Each route has its perks, so consider how much time you have, traffic patterns, personal preferences, and if you’ll need to make any pit stops along the way. No matter which route you choose, enjoy the journey and stay safe on the road!