How Long Does It Take to Drive from Baltimore to Hagerstown?

Marylanders love a good road trip, and the drive from Baltimore to Hagerstown is a great one. But how much time should you budget for the drive? The answer depends on a few factors, including which route you take and what time of day you make the trip.

Route Options

The two most popular routes for driving from Baltimore to Hagerstown are I-70 West and US-40 West. I-70 is the faster route and takes you through Frederick, while US-40 is the more scenic route that will take you through the towns of Ellicott City and Frederick.

Driving Time

According to Google Maps, the distance from Baltimore to Hagerstown is approximately 70 miles, and the estimated driving time for I-70 is 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the estimated driving time for US-40 is a little over 2 hours.

But what about peak traffic times? Traffic can greatly affect travel time. During weekday rush hours, both routes can take twice as long. On I-70, the drive can take up to 2 - 2.5 hours depending on the severity of the traffic, and on US-40 up to 3 - 3.5 hours. On weekends, the drive is typically much smoother.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking to minimize your driving time, take I-70. If you want to take in a little bit of Maryland's scenic countryside, US-40 is a great option. No matter which route you choose, be sure to check traffic reports before hitting the road to avoid any major delays. And if you're looking to make a day trip out of it, consider stopping at some of the great attractions along the way -- there's plenty to see and do between Baltimore and Hagerstown!