Navigating the Roadways: Driving from Auburn to Seattle

Driving from Auburn to Seattle can be a breeze or a nightmare depending on the time of day and route you take. Navigating the roadways can be confusing, but when you understand the different options, you can make your commute or travel much easier. In this post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of those routes, and the time it takes to get from Auburn to Seattle based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are three major routes to get from Auburn to Seattle. These include the Pacific Highway South, Interstate 5, and State Route 167. Depending on your destination and time of day, one route may be faster than the other.

The fastest route is using Interstate 5, which takes you directly to downtown Seattle. It's a distance of 27.5 miles and can take between 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. State Route 167 is another option. It's a 24-mile distance that takes you closer to the east side of Seattle. Expect a similar driving time as I-5. However, if you hit traffic, it can get backed up easily.

The slowest, yet most scenic, route is Pacific Highway South. It's a distance of 30 miles, and you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful views of the Puget Sound. But this longer route can take over an hour if you hit traffic.

Peak Traffic Times vs. Low Traffic Times

Knowing peak traffic times and low traffic times can make a huge difference in your commute or travel time. Peak traffic times are usually between 6-10 am and 3-7 pm on weekdays. If you're driving during these times, expect to add 15-30 minutes to your driving time.

Low traffic times include weekends and holidays. This is the best time to travel and avoid traffic. A drive from Auburn to Seattle during low traffic times can take as little as 20-25 minutes on I-5 and State Route 167.

Option for the Adventurous

If you're feeling adventurous options for getting from Auburn to Seattle, why not take Sounder Train? The train schedule is limited, but it's an excellent option if you want to avoid traffic. The train ride is approximately 40 minutes from Auburn Station to Seattle's King Street Station.

In conclusion, driving from Auburn to Seattle can be unpredictable, but if you know the routes and traffic patterns, you can plan your travel accordingly. The fastest routes include Interstate 5 and SR 167, but the slowest and most beautiful views route is Pacific Highway South. Try to avoid peak traffic hours if you can and consider the option of the Sounder Train for a stress-free commute to Seattle.