The Ultimate Road Trip: Aurora, Colorado to Long Beach, California

Are you planning a road trip from Aurora, Colorado to Long Beach, California? This is a journey of approximately 1222 miles, which can be covered in about 18 and a half hours of driving. However, the driving time varies according to different factors such as traffic, route, and time of day. Here's a detailed guide to different driving options and drive times for different routes.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are several routes you can take from Aurora, Colorado to Long Beach, California. The fastest route would be to take I-70 W and I-15 S. This route covers 1138 miles and takes approximately 17 hours and 45 minutes. The journey starts by taking I-70 W from Aurora until it intersects with I-15 S. This route takes you through scenic mountains and valleys, giving you a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains. You can make a stop at Las Vegas to enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife before proceeding to Long Beach.

The slowest route would be to take US-40 W and I-70 W. This route covers 1299 miles and takes approximately 20 hours and 5 minutes. This route takes you through the Great Basin Desert and mountains, but the traffic is less congested due to the fewer number of travelers.

Distance and Driving Time

The difference between the shortest and the longest routes is around 161 miles, and the time difference is approximately two and a half hours. The distance you will cover depends on the route you take. The driving time also depends on the time of day. The best time to start your journey would be early in the morning to avoid peak hour traffic. If you leave early, you can cover the distance in the estimated time, but if you start later, peak-hour traffic in cities such as Las Vegas and Los Angeles slows you down.

Low Traffic vs Peak Traffic

The journey from Aurora, Colorado to Long Beach, California takes approximately 18 and a half hours in ideal conditions. However, traffic patterns can increase drive time significantly. At peak traffic times, you can add an additional 2 to 3 hours to your journey. Around Las Vegas and Los Angeles, rush hour traffic can add an extra half hour to an hour to the commute. In contrast, lower traffic levels can make the same route up to two hours faster. It is vital to keep this in mind when planning your road trip.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that a road trip is an excellent way to experience the journey to Long Beach, California from Aurora, Colorado. With this guide, you can choose between different routes, measure the distance and trip duration, and plan your journey with confidence. No matter the route, the journey will be worth it, with a plethora of exciting and breathtaking sights along the way.