The Long Haul: The Time It Takes to Drive from Bakersfield to Baltimore

Are you planning a cross-country road trip? Going from the West Coast to the East Coast is a feat in itself, but have you ever wondered just how long it would take? In this blog post, we'll be detailing the different routes you can take from Bakersfield, California, to Baltimore, Maryland, and how long it would take at peak traffic times and low traffic times.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to get to Baltimore as quickly as possible, take the I-40 E and I-81 N route. According to Google Maps, this route is 2,744 miles long and is predicted to take around 40 hours of driving time with no stops. At peak traffic times, expect to add an additional 2-3 hours of driving time to the route. However, if you decide to travel during low traffic times, it's possible to cut that time down to approximately 36 hours.

The Scenic Route

For those who aren't in a rush to get to Baltimore, you may consider driving through the Midwest and the East Coast. Taking the I-80 E and I-76 E route will take you through Nebraska, Ohio, and Pennsylvania before eventually reaching Baltimore. This route is approximately 3,004 miles long, and without stops, is predicted to take around 44 hours. With peak traffic times, the drive can be expected to take around 47 hours. If you're not in a rush, taking this route can give you the opportunity to see various landmarks and diverse landscapes.

The Slow Route

If you're looking to make stops on your journey to experience the country, consider taking the I-10 E and I-20 E route. You can anticipate stopping for food, rest, and entertainment along the way and breaking up the drive time. This route offers the chance to travel through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama before reaching Baltimore, a total of around 2,830 miles. Without stops, it's predicted to take around 42 hours to drive, with peak traffic times adding at least another hour to your journey. If you're looking to enjoy the scenic routes of middle America and the Deep South, this is an ideal path for you.

Conclusion

The drive from Bakersfield, California to Baltimore, Maryland, can be a long journey, but there are routes to consider that make it an enjoyable and comfortable time. Your choice of route may depend on how quickly or leisurely you want to arrive in Baltimore. Regardless of the route you take, be prepared for traffic congestion along the way, and make sure you have everything you need for restaurant and rest area stops. Happy traveling!