Driving Time between Boise, Idaho and Des Moines, Iowa

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Road Tripping from Boise to Des Moines: Options for a Fun and Safe Trip

Looking for an adventure and want to drive from Boise, Idaho to Des Moines, Iowa? Well, you are in for a treat because we have prepared a guide to help you choose your route and have a great trip! From the scenic routes to the most direct, you have several options to choose from.

Distance and Time

Before we dive into each of the routes, let’s first take a look at the distance and time of each. The distance between Boise and Des Moines is approximately 1,072 miles. Driving without stops or traffic, it takes around 16 hours and 30 minutes to get from Boise to Des Moines.

Route Options

Option 1: Northwest Passage

For those who love the scenic route, taking the Northwest Passage is a great option. Starting in Boise, you’ll head north on Route 55 to McCall, then continue onto Route 95 to Coeur d’Alene. After that, you’ll head east on Interstate 90, through Montana and South Dakota before finally dropping down into Iowa. This route will take around 22 hours without stops. In addition to the beautiful scenery, there are plenty of National Parks and attractions along the way, including Glacier National Park, Mount Rushmore, and Badlands National Park.

Option 2: Central Route

The most direct route from Boise to Des Moines is via I-80 through Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa. This route is approximately 1,074 miles and will take around 16 hours and 30 minutes without stops. Although it may not be as scenic as the Northwest Passage, the route does have its own offerings, including the Pony Express National Historical Trail, Chimney Rock, and the Strategic Air and Space Museum.

Option 3: Southern Route

The Southern route is another option worth considering. Starting in Boise, you’ll drive south through Utah, Colorado, Kansas, and then into Iowa. This route is approximately 1,254 miles, and without stops, it takes around 19 hours and 15 minutes. Along the way, you'll be able to visit Arches National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

Regardless of which route you choose, there are several cities and attractions you won’t want to miss along the way. Here are some recommendations for you:

  • Cheyenne, Wyoming - the capital city of Wyoming and home to the historic Cheyenne Depot Museum.
  • Omaha, Nebraska - the largest city in Nebraska and home to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, one of the top zoos in the United States.
  • Kansas City, Missouri - known for its barbecue and jazz music, Kansas City is a great place to spend a day or two exploring. Be sure to visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial.
  • Des Moines, Iowa - the destination of your trip. Explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Des Moines Art Center, and take a stroll around the East Village.

Final Thoughts

Road tripping from Boise, Idaho to Des Moines, Iowa is a fun and exciting adventure. There are plenty of routes to choose from, each with its own unique offerings. Whether you take the scenic route, the most direct, or anything in between, we hope that our guide has helped you plan your trip - and enjoy every part of it! Remember to drive safely, wear your seatbelt, and take breaks whenever you need them. Have a great trip!