How Long Does It Take to Drive From Appleton, Wisconsin to Red Wing, Minnesota?

Are you planning a road trip from Appleton, Wisconsin to Red Wing, Minnesota? One of the first things you'll want to know is how long it will take to drive there. Fortunately, there are several routes you can take, each with its own distance and estimated travel time. In this post, I'll cover the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Appleton to Red Wing is via I-94 West. This route is approximately 200 miles long, and it takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete under normal conditions. If you hit traffic during peak hours, however, it can take up to 4 hours or more. The fastest time to cover this journey is during early mornings or late evenings when the traffic is low.

Slowest Route

The slowest route is via WI-10, WI-72, and MN-61 North. This route is approximately 230 miles long and takes about 5 hours to travel. This route has many attractions and can see plenty of traffic during peak times. It goes through several small towns that can increase the drive time, but it offers scenic views of the Mississippi river and a chance to explore small towns.

Traffic Patterns

The time it takes to drive from Appleton to Red Wing will depend on the time of day and route you choose. Rush hour traffic can slow down your travel time by up to an hour, so it's best to avoid peak hours. The most significant area of traffic is closer to Minnesota, especially as you cross Mississippi River.

Conclusion

Depending on your route and traffic patterns, it can take anywhere between 3 hours and 5 hours to drive from Appleton, WI, to Red Wing, MN. I-94 W is the fastest route with the least amount of traffic, while WI-10 takes longer and can see some traffic but offers scenic views. A straight drive in low traffic can be done in as low as 3 hours and 15 minutes, but the actual travel time can differ based on route and traffic conditions. It's always good to check on the weather and keep some extra time in your schedule while planning a road trip. Finally, don't forget to stop and enjoy the sights and sounds of the journey along this beautiful drive!