A Road Trip from Buffalo to Burlington: Drive Time and Route Options

Are you planning a road trip from Buffalo, New York to Burlington, Vermont? This route has plenty of scenic beauty, from the rolling hills of the Adirondacks to the shores of Lake Champlain. But how long will it take you to drive from Buffalo to Burlington? That depends on the route you choose and the traffic conditions. Here's a breakdown of the fastest and slowest routes and the estimated time it will take for each one.

Fastest Route: I-90 East and I-87 North (438 miles, 7 hours)

The fastest route from Buffalo to Burlington takes you along the New York State Thruway (I-90) and the Adirondack Northway (I-87). This route covers a distance of 438 miles and should take about 7 hours if you drive continuously, without any traffic or rest stops. However, traffic congestion may add to the drive time, especially in urban areas like Syracuse and Albany. If you leave early in the morning or on the weekends, you may avoid peak traffic times and cut down on your drive time.

Scenic Route: Route 9 North (460 miles, 9 hours)

If you're looking for a more leisurely road trip with stunning scenery, try Route 9 North. This route takes you through the heart of the Adirondack Park, with views of mountains, lakes, and forests. However, the distance is longer than the I-90/I-87 route at 460 miles, and there are more stoplights and slower speed limits. Expect to take around 9 hours to drive this route, factoring in stops for meals, rest, and sightseeing.

Slowest Route: Route 104 East and Route 3 East (474 miles, 10 hours)

The slowest route from Buffalo to Burlington covers a distance of 474 miles and takes around 10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route takes you through the northern part of New York State, with stops in Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, and Plattsburgh. While there are several scenic spots along the way, like Lake Ontario and the Adirondack Mountains, this route has more traffic lights, speed limits, and passing zones than the other options.

Traffic Conditions: Best and Worst Times to Drive

No matter which route you choose, traffic conditions will affect your drive time. If you're driving during peak times, like rush hour or holiday weekends, you may experience delays on all routes. Here are the estimated drive times for each route based on typical traffic patterns:

I-90/I-87: 7-8 hours during off-peak times; 8-9 hours during peak times
Route 9: 9-10 hours during off-peak times; 10-12 hours during peak times
Route 104/Route 3: 10-11 hours during off-peak times; 12-14 hours during peak times

To avoid traffic congestion, consider skipping the commute hours and driving in the early morning or late evening. You can also use traffic apps or websites to check the current conditions and plan your route accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Choose Your Adventure and Enjoy the Ride

Ultimately, the time it takes to drive from Buffalo to Burlington depends on your route choice, traffic conditions, and travel style. If you want to get there quickly and don't mind the highway, stick to the I-90/I-87 route. If you want to immerse yourself in the Adirondack wilderness, go for Route 9. If you have time to spare and enjoy the journey more than the destination, take the slower Route 104/Route 3. Whichever route you choose, make sure to stop and stretch your legs, enjoy the scenery, and make some memories along the way. Happy travels!