Road trip from Bakersfield to Mesa: Planning Your Driving Time

Planning a road trip can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to calculating the time it will take to arrive at your destination. Driving from Bakersfield, California, to Mesa, Arizona will take you on an amazing journey through breathtaking sceneries, but how much time should you allow for this drive? Let's explore the fastest and slowest routes and how long it takes to cover them.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Bakersfield to Mesa is taking Interstate 5 South to CA-166 East, and then driving on CA-58 East towards Tehachapi. This route has a distance of approximately 400 miles and takes about 6 hours in driving time. To avoid traffic, it’s best to plan your trip during off-peak travel times. If you’re traveling during peak traffic times, such as during rush hour or holiday weekends, it may take longer to get to your destination.

The Scenic Route

For those who don't mind taking the slower route, the scenic drive from Bakersfield to Mesa is a wondrous experience. From Bakersfield, take CA-58 East and head towards Tehachapi. Once there, take CA-202 South to CA-177 East, and finally, take Interstate 10 East towards Phoenix. This route has a distance of approximately 500 miles and can take around 8 hours of driving time.

Traffic Patterns

To calculate your driving time more accurately, it's crucial to consider the usual traffic patterns of each route. For example, both routes may have busy travel times, such as during morning commutes, weekends, and holidays. The fastest and most direct route may save you some time, but if driving time is your only priority, you may miss out on the incredible sights and sounds the scenic route offers.

Conclusion

The time it takes to drive from Bakersfield to Mesa depends on the route you take. The fastest route will take about 6 hours, while the scenic route can take up to 8 hours. The best way to ensure accurate driving times is to take into account traffic patterns. All in all, whether you choose to take the fastest or scenic route, make sure to take your time, enjoy the journey, and create incredible memories. Happy travels!