Driving Time between California and West Virginia

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Road Trip from California to West Virginia: Route Options and Driving Times

Are you feeling adventurous and ready for a road trip from California to West Virginia? The journey may seem daunting, but with some planning, snacks, and a positive attitude, you'll be cruising along in no time. There are a few different route options available, so we'll break each one down by distance and approximate driving time.

I-80 E through Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming (2,392 miles, approximately 34 hours)

If you're up for a long drive through multiple states, taking I-80 East is the way to go. The route begins in San Francisco and heads east through Reno, Nevada, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Cheyenne, Wyoming before turning south and eventually leading to West Virginia. Along the way, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and make a pitstop in Salt Lake City to check out the Utah State Capitol building.

I-70 E through Colorado, Kansas, and Missouri (1,819 miles, approximately 26 hours)

For a slightly shorter and more direct drive, take I-70 East from California through Denver, Colorado, Kansas City, Missouri, and St. Louis before ultimately arriving in West Virginia. This route offers a mix of urban landscapes and rural scenery. Stop off in Denver to explore the city's vibrant art scene, or take a detour in Kansas City to sample some famous barbecue.

I-40 E through Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Arkansas (1,850 miles, approximately 27 hours)

Another option is to head east on I-40 towards the Texas panhandle before turning northeast towards West Virginia through Oklahoma and Arkansas. This route will take you through the beautiful desert landscapes of Arizona and New Mexico before transitioning to the green forests of the Ozarks in Arkansas. Consider making a pitstop in Albuquerque to visit the historic Old Town area and indulge in some delicious New Mexican cuisine.

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of great spots to check out along the way. Consider stopping in Denver, CO for a visit to the Denver Art Museum and a sip of local craft beer at one of the city's many breweries. In Albuquerque, NM, take a stroll through historic Old Town and treat yourself to a plate of mouthwatering enchiladas. And in Kansas City, MO, make sure to visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which houses one of the largest collections of WWI artifacts in the world.

Conclusion

While the drive from California to West Virginia may take a day or two, there are plenty of beautiful sights to enjoy and places to explore along the way. So pack your bags, grab your favorite road trip snacks, and hit the road!