Driving Time between Bakersfield, California and Indianapolis, Indiana

A picture depicting driving

Beat The Clock: A Guide to Driving From Bakersfield, California to Indianapolis, Indiana

There's something about a cross-country road trip that excites the adventurer in all of us. However, the process of planning a long drive can seem daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the route. Fear not! This guide will give you all the information you need to know to make your journey from Bakersfield, California to Indianapolis, Indiana smoother and more efficient.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The distance between Bakersfield and Indianapolis is approximately 2,200 miles. Depending on your route, the driving time can vary greatly. The fastest route is via I-40 E and I-44 E, which should take approximately 29 hours, assuming little traffic and optimal driving conditions. However, if you're seeking scenic routes with landmarks, here are some alternative options to consider:

  • The Great River Road: A journey of 2,300 miles along the Mississippi River, which takes drivers through 10 states, including Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana.

  • Route 66: A classic American drive that spans almost 2,500 miles stretching as far as Santa Monica in California to Chicago, Illinois.

  • The Lincoln Highway: A historic route that starts in San Francisco and ends in New York City, with the 3,300-mile road passing through states such as Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska. The downside to this beautiful route is its length, with the total drive taking up to four days.

Driving Times Based on Traffic Patterns

Regardless of your chosen route, traffic can quickly turn your journey into a frustrating experience. That's why it's crucial to plan and understand the traffic patterns on your chosen path. You can expect to face heavy traffic on popular travel days such as Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve.

For the fastest route of Bakersfield to Indianapolis, during off-peak hours, such as 6 AM on a Tuesday morning, the drive can take just under 28 hours. However, during peak hours or rush hour, drivers should expect to spend 34 hours on the road.

If you decide to take one of the scenic routes instead, these generally take longer than the most direct route, but offer great opportunities to take breaks and enjoy your journey. The Great River Road, for example, could take up to 50 hours to complete. While Route 66 clocks in at about 40 hours for the round trip and the Lincoln Highway will take around four days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it's possible to reach Indianapolis from Bakersfield while factoring in breathtaking views of the United States countryside, noteworthy landmarks, and a couple of pit-stops along the way. Of course, there are certain times when traffic is unavoidable, but with a flexible schedule and a bit of prep, you can enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy your trip!