Driving Time between Buffalo, Minnesota and Apple Valley, Minnesota

A picture depicting driving

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Time Between Buffalo and Apple Valley

Are you planning a road trip from Buffalo to Apple Valley in Minnesota? Whether you're a local or just passing through, choosing the best route and travel time can make all the difference.

In this article, we'll explore the various routes available, the distance of each route, and the time each route takes. From there, we'll give some recommendations of places to stop along the way. So buckle up, get your GPS ready, and let's hit the road!

Route Options

There are three main routes to consider when traveling from Buffalo to Apple Valley - Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3.

  • Route 1: This route takes you down US-169 S and I-494 E. It's the shortest route at 44 miles but can take around 50 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
  • Route 2: For those who prefer a more scenic drive, Route 2 could be a good option. This route takes you down MN-7 E and MN-5 E, passing through smaller towns and beautiful countryside. It's a slightly longer route, coming in at around 51 miles, but can actually be quicker if traffic is heavy on Route 1. Expect this route to take around an hour and 10 minutes.
  • Route 3: Finally, if you're looking to avoid major highways altogether, Route 3 could be the way to go. This route takes you down various county roads, including CR 35 and CR 42. It's the longest route at around 54 miles and will take approximately an hour and 20 minutes. However, you'll have the chance to see some lovely small towns and breathtaking nature.

Driving Time and Recommendations

Once you've picked your route, it's time to hit the road! Here's a breakdown of driving times and some recommendations for places to stop along the way.

Route 1

As mentioned earlier, Route 1 is the shortest but can sometimes take longer due to traffic. However, if you're heading to Apple Valley during off-peak hours, this route can be very convenient. Here are some places to consider stopping along the way:

  • Twin Cities National Golf Course: This golf course is just off Route 1 and perfect for a quick 9 or 18 holes if you're looking to stretch your legs before continuing the trip.
  • Minnesota Zoo: Located in Apple Valley, the Minnesota Zoo is a fantastic place to spend a half-day or more. From just a quick walk through to a full zoo experience, you'll see animals from all over the world, including tigers, giraffes, and bears.

Route 2

As a lengthier but more scenic route, Route 2 is perfect for those who aren't in a rush and want to really soak in the beauty of Minnesota. Here are a couple of stops along the way worth considering:

  • Luce Line State Trail: This trail spans 63 miles, from Plymouth to Cosmos, passing through smaller towns and rolling hills. It's a perfect spot to take a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • The Lone Tree County Park: Located in Minnetrista, this park is home to a beautiful lake, hiking trails, and spots for fishing. It's ideal for a quick picnic or a short hike.

Route 3

Finally, Route 3 is the longest but also the most adventurous of the three. Here are some places you might want to stop and check out:

  • Carver Park Reserve: This reserve spans over 3,500 acres and features a variety of outdoor activities, from camping to kayaking. If the weather is nice, it's a perfect spot to spend a few hours.
  • Dakota Rail Trail: This rail-trail spans 26 miles, from Wayzata to Mayer, and features some incredibly scenic views of Lake Minnetonka. It's perfect for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing in the winter.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to traveling from Buffalo to Apple Valley. From the fastest and most direct Route 1 to the more leisurely and scenic Route 2, to the adventurous and rustic Route 3, there's something for everyone. No matter which route you take, be sure to make some stops along the way to really make the most of your road trip!