Road Trip from Albuquerque to Amarillo – What’s Your Best Route?

Nothing beats the feeling of hitting the open road, especially when you’re embarking on a journey to a new destination. If you’re planning a trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Amarillo, Texas, one of the biggest questions you’ll likely have is how long the drive takes. We’ve got all the details you need to plan your journey, including the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and how long you can expect the drive to take based on traffic patterns.

Fastest vs. Slowest Routes

First things first, let’s talk about your route options. On the fastest route from Albuquerque to Amarillo, you’ll follow I-40 East for roughly 290 miles. This route can typically be driven in around 4.5 hours, but keep in mind that traffic patterns can impact travel time. If you’re looking for a quieter, more scenic route, you can take US-60 East and Route 66 East instead. This route adds on about 70 extra miles, but it can be worth it for the breathtaking views of the New Mexico and Texas countryside.

Distance and Travel Time

As mentioned, the fastest route from Albuquerque to Amarillo is roughly 290 miles. If you opt for the more scenic route, your total distance will be just over 350 miles. These distances account for any necessary detours or side trips you might take along the way.

As far as travel time goes, you can expect to spend around 4.5 hours on the road if you take the fastest route, especially if you’re driving during peak traffic times. If you’re looking to shave some time off your journey, consider driving during off-peak hours. During light traffic times and with no stops, you may make the same journey in just 3.5 hours.

Plan Ahead for Your Best Route

So, which route is the best one for your journey from Albuquerque to Amarillo? It really depends on your priorities. If you’re looking to make as good time as possible, stick to I-40 East and avoid driving during peak traffic times. If you want to soak up some sights and scenery, take US-60 East and Route 66 East – and don’t worry too much about the additional time on the road. Remember to also factor in time for pit stops, food, fuel, and rest. With some careful planning ahead of time, you can ensure a fun, stress-free journey from Albuquerque to Amarillo.