Road Trip: Driving from California to Vermont

Are you planning a road trip from California to Vermont? This cross-country drive covers over 3,000 miles and can take anywhere from 40 to 50 hours of driving time. But before you hit the road, it’s important to know which routes to take and what kind of traffic you’ll be facing.

Fastest Route: 2 Days, 15 Hours

The fastest route from California to Vermont is an interstate route that takes you through the Midwest. Begin in San Francisco and head east on I-80, which will take you across Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois. From there, take I-94, which continues through Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. Finally, merge onto I-90, which will take you across New York and into Vermont.

This route spans a distance of approximately 2,967 miles and takes around 2 days, 15 hours to drive. However, keep in mind that this time estimate is based on no traffic, and the actual travel time may be longer.

Scenic Route: 3 Days, 11 Hours

Looking for a more scenic route? Take a longer, southern route from California to Vermont. Begin in Los Angeles and head east on I-10, which will take you through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana. From there, take I-20, which continues through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. Finally, merge onto I-85 and I-77 through North Carolina and Virginia, and into Vermont.

This route spans a distance of approximately 3,338 miles and takes around 3 days, 11 hours to drive. The good news is that you'll have plenty of photo opportunities on this breathtaking route, the downside is that this route can be challenging if you're not used to lengthy drives.

Timing Matters

Even though the fastest route may be the most direct, traffic can significantly increase driving times. High traffic times include holidays, weekends, and rush hour, so it's advisable to avoid these times if possible.

At peak traffic, the fastest route can take up to 4 days or more to drive, while the scenic route can take up to 5 days. However, at low traffic times, the fastest route can take just 2 days, 10 hours to drive, and the scenic route can take 3 days, 8 hours. So, make sure you plan your trip accordingly to your travel style and time frames.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you take from California to Vermont, it’s important to be prepared for the long journey ahead. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for the ride, and make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before embarking on your trip. By doing so, you’ll have an unforgettable road trip full of fond memories and awe-inspiring views.

Happy Travels!