The Drive from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a trip from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield and wondering how long the drive will take? Well, the answer is not that simple. The drive time largely depends on the route you take and the time of day you drive. Here's a breakdown of the different options you have and what you can expect in terms of drive time.

Route Options

Fastest Route: I-5 S

If you're looking for the quickest way to get from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield, take Interstate 5 South. This route is approximately 28 miles and takes around 30 minutes (without traffic).

Scenic Route: CA-58 E

If you have a little extra time and want to see some beautiful scenery, take CA-58 E. The distance is a little longer at approximately 30 miles, but you get to drive through the rolling hills of the Central Valley. This route takes around 35 minutes (without traffic).

Slowest Route: CA-223 E

If you're in the mood for a leisurely drive, take CA-223 E. This route is approximately 26 miles, but it takes around 40 minutes due to the winding roads and lower speed limits.

Peak Traffic vs. Low Traffic

Of course, the time it takes to drive from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield will depend on the time of day you drive. Rush hour traffic can add significant time to your drive.

In peak traffic times, you should expect to add at least 10-15 minutes to your drive time. This means that the quickest route (I-5 S) could take up to 45 minutes during rush hour. On the other hand, if you drive early in the morning or late at night, you may not experience any traffic at all, and your drive time could be even faster than estimated.

Planning Your Drive

When planning your drive, it's essential to keep the time of day in mind and factor in traffic patterns. Rush hour traffic usually happens between 7 am and 10 am, and between 4 pm and 7 pm. If you can, try to plan your journey outside these times to save yourself some time.

Overall, the drive from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield is relatively quick, which means you have plenty of time to explore the beautiful Central Valley and all the attractions that Bakersfield has to offer. Whether you take the scenic route or stick to the freeways, you're sure to have a great time.