The Great Road Trip: Traveling from Baltimore to Oakland
Are you ready for an epic road trip across America? If you're looking to drive from Baltimore, Maryland to Oakland, California, get ready for an adventure. From the East Coast to the West Coast, you'll get to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the country. There are different routes that you can take to get to Oakland, so let's take a look at what's available.
The Northern Route
If you're looking for a scenic drive, the northern route might be for you. You'll drive through some of the country's most iconic national parks, such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton. This route takes you across the country in around 41 hours, covering 2,800 miles. You'll need to go west on I-70 and then head north on I-15.
Along the way, make sure to take a break in Salt Lake City, Utah. The city's Temple Square is a must-see, and you can also enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the Wasatch Mountains.
The Southern Route
If you're more interested in the sun, then consider taking the southern route. It takes you through some of the country's most beautiful deserts, as well as famous cities such as Las Vegas and Phoenix. You'll drive for around 38 hours, covering 2,700 miles. You'll need to head west on I-70 and then south on I-15.
San Diego is a great place to stop along the way. Take a break at La Jolla Cove, where you can see sea lions up close and personal, or explore Balboa Park, home to beautiful gardens and world-class museums.
The Middle Route
For a bit of a compromise between the other two options, there's the middle route. You'll still get some of the beautiful landscapes of the northern route, but without the longer driving time. This route takes you through St. Louis and Denver. It's around 36 hours, covering 2,500 miles. You'll need to head west on I-70 and then south on I-25.
Stop in Kansas City for some famous BBQ, or in Omaha to wander through the beautiful Old Market.
Driving Time and Traffic
No matter which route you choose, you're going to be on the road for a while. Keep in mind the amount of traffic you might encounter, especially if you're driving through big cities. Rush hour traffic can add hours to your trip, so try to time your drive to avoid it if possible.
The average driving time from Baltimore to Oakland is around 40 hours, but this can vary greatly depending on which route you choose and how many stops you make along the way. Make sure to factor in time for food, rest, and filling up your gas tank.
Recommended Stops
No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of great places to stop and take a break along the way. Some great options include:
- Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Austin, Texas
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Lake Tahoe, California
These are just a few of the many, many places you can stop along the way. Don't be afraid to explore and take detours off the beaten path.
Conclusion
Driving from Baltimore to Oakland is definitely a journey, but it's one that's well worth taking. No matter which route you choose, you'll get to see some of the most beautiful parts of the country. From stunning national parks to bustling cities, this road trip has something for everyone. Get ready to explore!