The Great Drive: From Bellingham, Washington to Salt Lake City, Utah

If you're planning on hitting the open road and driving from Bellingham, Washington to Salt Lake City, Utah, you might be wondering just how long the journey will take. After all, it's a fair distance to cover, and you don't want to be caught out on the road for longer than you planned. Lucky for you, we've done the research, so you don't have to!

Route Options

There are numerous routes you can take to get from Bellingham to Salt Lake City. The fastest, most direct route is I-90 E, but there are other options depending on what you want to see along the way.

Fastest Route: I-90 E

The fastest route to Salt Lake City from Bellingham is via I-90 E. At a distance of 801 miles, this is a lengthy drive that will take around 12 hours in total, depending on traffic and your speed. During peak traffic times, you can expect to add a few hours to the drive, especially if you hit traffic in major cities such as Seattle, Spokane, and Boise.

Alternative Route: US-97 S and I-84 E

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you could opt for US-97 S and I-84 E. This covers a distance of 882 miles, but the drive time increases to around 14 hours, even without traffic. Although it takes longer, you'll be driving through stunning landscapes, such as Crater Lake and the Columbia River Gorge, making it a great option if you have more time to spare.

Traffic Patterns

Just like any long drive, the time it takes to get from Bellingham to Salt Lake City will depend heavily on traffic patterns. If you're traveling during peak times, such as rush hour or the holiday season, it's likely that your drive time will increase.

Peak Traffic Times

If you're driving during peak traffic times (morning and afternoon rush hour, as well as holidays), be prepared for some delays. The fastest route via I-90 E can take up to 15 hours, while the more scenic route via US-97 S and I-84 E can add up to 2 more hours to your drive time.

Low Traffic Times

If you're not keen on driving in rush hour, then you'll be happy to know that drive times can be significantly reduced outside of peak traffic times. On average, you can expect to save around 30 minutes to an hour on your drive time. That being said, it's always worth checking traffic reports before you set off, as there may still be delays or roadworks on your chosen route.

In Conclusion

The drive from Bellingham, Washington, to Salt Lake City, Utah may be lengthy, but with a bit of planning, it can be an enjoyable journey. The fastest and most direct route is via I-90 E, while the more scenic option is US-97 S and I-84 E. Peak traffic times and holiday seasons can add significant time to your journey, so it's always a good idea to plan ahead and check your route before you set off. But no matter which route you choose, with the right preparation, you will undoubtedly enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences along the way.