The Road from Boulder to Westminster: Fastest and Slowest Routes

If you are planning a road trip from Boulder to Westminster, Colorado, you might be wondering how long it will take you to get there. The answer is, it depends on a few factors, such as the time of day you plan to travel, the route you take, and the traffic conditions. In this post, we'll go over some of the fastest and slowest routes, the distance between these two cities, and how long they would take based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Routes

The fastest route from Boulder to Westminster is via the US-36 E and takes approximately 25 minutes in light traffic. This route is about 20 miles long and features a mix of highways and local streets, making it a convenient option for drivers. Another speedy option, albeit more expensive, is to take the express lanes, which can cut travel time by a few minutes.

Another way to bypass traffic jams and reduce travel time is to take the toll roads. The Northwest Parkway and E-470 are the fastest routes, but they come at a cost. The Northwest Parkway is a 75 mph toll road that takes you directly from Boulder to Westminster in just 20 minutes, but the cost is roughly $7.50. E-470, on the other hand, is a 120-mile toll road network that bypasses Denver's busy highways, but its fees can vary depending on the entry and exit points.

Slowest Routes

If you are not in a time crunch, there are several slower but scenic routes that you can take to enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Colorado countryside. The US-287 N provides drivers with picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains, but it takes an hour in light traffic, making it ideal for leisurely drives or weekend getaways.

Another option is to take the CO-93 N and enjoy the views of the stunning Boulder Mountain Parks System. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes to drive from Boulder to Westminster using this route. The highway is winding and hilly, so it is not ideal for drivers who are in a hurry, but it offers some of Colorado's most beautiful scenery.

Traffic Patterns and Driving Times

The time it takes to drive from Boulder to Westminster can vary significantly depending on traffic patterns. Rush hour traffic can significantly impact driving times, so it is essential to consider the time of day you plan to travel.

During peak hours, such as weekday mornings and evenings, you can expect to spend anywhere between 40 to 60 minutes on the road, depending on the route you take. Conversely, traveling during off-peak hours, such as weekends or late at night, can significantly reduce travel time.

The Bottom Line

In summary, the time it takes to drive from Boulder to Westminster varies considerably, depending on the route you take, traffic patterns, and the time of day you travel. The US-36 E is the fastest and most convenient option, taking just around 25 minutes in light traffic, whereas the scenic routes like US-287 N and CO-93 N can take up to an hour and 15 minutes.

Overall, regardless of the route you choose, it's always best to plan ahead, factor in traffic patterns, and leave plenty of time to arrive at your destination safely. With these tips, you are sure to have a pleasant journey from Boulder to Westminster, Colorado.