Road Trip: The Time It Takes To Drive From Bakersfield to Sacramento

Take a break from your daily routine and experience a little bit of adventure on the road! If you're thinking of driving from Bakersfield to Sacramento, we've got the information you need to help you plan your trip. Knowing the estimated travel time helps you make the most of your time and ensure you arrive at your destination as planned.

Fastest and slowest routes

There are a few options when it comes to driving from Bakersfield to Sacramento, and each one has its pros and cons. The fastest route is to take Highway 99 North. It's a relatively straight shot that takes you through fast-paced urban areas like Stockton and Elk Grove. The distance is 272 miles and should take you about 4 hours and 30 minutes with good traffic.

The scenic route, which takes much longer, is to take Highway 58 West to Highway 101 North, then Highway 113 to Interstate 5 North. It's the longest route at 401 miles, taking approximately 7 hours with good traffic. The longer drive will be worth it if you want to admire beautiful vistas and explore charming towns like Paso Robles and Napa Valley.

Traffic

The total driving time from Bakersfield to Sacramento depends on traffic conditions. The best time to avoid traffic congestion is to leave Bakersfield early in the morning. On average, the morning rush hour starts at 6:30 AM and peaks at around 8:30 AM. If you hit the road during this time, expect to add an extra 30 to 45 minutes to your driving time.

The worst time to drive is during the evening rush, which starts at around 3:30 PM and ends at 6:30 PM. This means that if you leave Sacramento at 4:00 pm, you will hit the worst of the evening rush hour and add an extra hour or more to your travel time.

Conclusion

Driving from Bakersfield to Sacramento is a great idea for a road trip. If you're looking for a faster route, choose Highway 99 North, but if you have plenty of time, the more scenic route along Highways 58, 101, and 113 is worthwhile. No matter the route, avoid peak traffic times if possible, and always remember to plan some breaks along the way. Get ready to enjoy the ride and everything that this beautiful area has to offer!