The Road from Caldwell to Ames: Which Route is Quickest?

If you're looking to travel from Caldwell, Texas, to Ames, Iowa, you've got some driving ahead of you. But with multiple interstate options and several routes through the Great Plains to choose from, which is the best one for you?

Route 1: I-35 N and I-80 E

This is the fastest route, clocking in at a distance of 918 miles and a driving time of about 14.5 hours. Taking I-35 N almost the whole way, you'll pass through Dallas, Waco, Oklahoma City, and Wichita, before turning eastward onto I-80 as you near Des Moines. Average driving speed is around 65 MPH on this route, though heavy traffic can slow you down considerably.

Peak driving time for this route would be weekdays from 7-9 AM, as you'll be passing through major metropolitan centers, while the lowest traffic times would be early morning or late evening. Expect to spend around $200 in gas for this route, depending on your vehicle and gas prices.

Route 2: US-77 N and I-35 N

While not as quick as Route 1, this alternate is still a popular option. The distance is slightly shorter, at 902 miles, but you'll be on smaller highways as much of this route is bypassed by the interstate. Starting out on US-77 N through Waco, Kansas, and Nebraska, you'll eventually join up with I-35 N just before Des Moines.

While the distance is shorter, expect to add an hour onto your driving time due to the smaller highways and slower average speed. The gas cost should be roughly the same as Route 1. Peak driving times will still be during weekday rush hour, with early mornings and late evenings being the quietest.

Route 3: US-77 N and I-80 E

If you're looking for a hybrid of the first two routes, this is it. Following US-77 N through Texas and Kansas and joining I-80 for the final stretch, you'll avoid some of the traffic of the major interstates while still keeping a relatively quick pace. The distance is 1,018 miles, with a driving time of just over 16 hours.

This route will offer similar driving speeds as Route 2, but the added distance makes it the slowest of the three options. If you're looking for a less-crowded drive, however, this is likely your best bet. Gas cost is closer to $250 on this route, due to the extra miles.

So, which route is the right one for you? It really depends on your priorities. If speed is your primary concern and you're willing to deal with some heavy traffic, Route 1 is your best bet. But if you're looking for a more leisurely drive or want to avoid heavy traffic altogether, Route 2 or 3 might be your best option. Regardless of your route, buckle up and get ready for a scenic tour of the Midwest!