Driving from Burbank, CA to Covina, CA: Which Route is Best?

Are you planning to drive from Burbank to Covina, California? This scenic drive can take you through some of Southern California's beautiful cities and landmarks. In this post, we will explore the different routes available and the time it takes to make the drive, whether you're facing bumper-to-bumper traffic or cruising on open roads.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get to Covina from Burbank is by hopping on the I-5 South, then merging onto the I-605 South. This 27.1-mile drive generally takes about 25 to 35 minutes, and during off-peak hours, you may reach your destination in as little as 25 minutes or so. That's an average speed of about 65mph.

The Scenic Route

There's a saying that goes, "Life is a journey, not a destination." If you're in no hurry, the most scenic route to get from Burbank to Covina is along the Foothill Boulevard, which takes you through several neighborhoods and the San Gabriel Mountains. This 25.2-mile route promises picturesque landscapes, vibrant destinations, and an average speed limit of around 35mph. Taking this drive will likely take about 40 minutes or longer, but it's worth it if you appreciate taking in the sights.

The Slowest Route

If time is not a factor, and you want to take the slow and steady approach, there's a route that takes you through several neighborhoods and side streets. This 18.2-mile route covers streets such as West Olive Avenue, Flower Street, and Workman Avenue. The drive may take over an hour, given that the average speed is around 25 to 30mph.

Time Based on Traffic

During the day, peak traffic hours occur from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The afternoon window is often busier than the mornings. At peak hours, you can expect more traffic on the highways and slower average speeds on the roads. Therefore, taking I-5 South and merging onto I-605 South may take 10-15 minutes longer than usual during peak hours.

Choosing the Right Time to Drive

To avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic, it's best to avoid driving during peak hours, which can often extend your drive time by 30 minutes or more. If you're not in a hurry, the scenic route is an excellent option that allows you to avoid some of the heaviest traffic jams.

In conclusion, there are different ways to get from Burbank to Covina, depending on your travel preferences. Take a multiple lane highway to make the trip faster, admire the beautiful scenery that makes Southern California so special, or take it easy on the side roads. Whichever route you choose, you now have a good sense of the amount of time it will take you to get there, so you can make the best decision for your travel schedule.