How Long Does It Take to Drive from Billings, Montana to Ontario, Oregon? Let's Find Out!

If you're planning a road trip from Billings, Montana to Ontario, Oregon, one of the most important questions you may have is how long it will take. The answer, of course, depends on a variety of factors, including the route you take, the time of day you depart, and the current traffic patterns. Here is a breakdown of the driving time for the most common routes.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking for the quickest drive from Billings to Ontario, the most direct route is via I-84 W. This route takes you through Idaho, and you'll enjoy the scenic views of Snake River. The distance is about 675 miles, and a car would typically take around 11 hours to complete the drive without traffic. During low-traffic times, you could expect to make the journey in about 10 hours, while peak traffic times could add an extra hour or two.

The Slowest Route

If you're more interested in enjoying the sights along the way and aren't too concerned about how long the drive takes, you may want to take US-93 S and OR-126 W. This route adds additional mileage, but it can be a much more scenic drive. The distance totals around 855 miles, which means the drive could take up to 14 hours without stops. During low-traffic times, you could expect to make the journey in about 12.5 hours, while peak traffic times could add an extra two hours or more.

The Middle Ground

Another option to consider is a combination of the two routes mentioned above. Take the fast route along I-84 W until Boise, Idaho and then hop over and head south on US-95 and you’ll join up with US-20, which will end at Ontario, Oregon. This route is a little longer at around 720 miles and it takes an average of 12.5 hours to complete the journey without traffic. The same traffic considerations apply as the other routes.

Other Considerations

Remember, these are average times and distances, and things like road work, accidents, and severe weather can all impact your drive time. It's also important to take regular breaks and get plenty of sleep to ensure your safety on long drives.

In conclusion, if you're making the trip from Billings, Montana to Ontario, Oregon, you have several route options to choose from, each with unique benefits. To make the most of your trip, factor in traffic patterns and drive times to plan your itinerary accordingly. Safe travels!