Driving Time between Calgary, Alberta and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A picture depicting driving

"Road Tripping from Calgary to Philadelphia: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Ride"

Planning a road trip from Calgary, Alberta to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania can be daunting, especially when you're not sure about the best route to take or how long it'll take. But, don’t worry – we’ve got you sorted! Here's a detailed guide to the fastest and slowest routes, the distance covered by those routes, and the estimated time of arrival based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to cover the distance is to take the route that passes through the US border crossing at Coutts, Montana. From there, you will take the fast-moving I-15 through Great Falls, Montana, and then continue on to I-90 through Wyoming and South Dakota. This route is around 4300km or 2672 miles in distance and will take you roughly 40 hours without any overnight stops. However, the total drive time will depend on the speed limit and traffic patterns.

The Slowest Route

If you want to take a more scenic route, the one that passes through the renowned national parks of Banff, Jasper, and Glacier, may be the perfect fit for you. This route, however, is the slowest due to its winding mountainous terrain. Once you cross the border and enter Montana, you can take I-15 and head towards Idaho, taking in the breathtaking views before joining up with I-90. The total distance covered by this route is 5000km or 3100 miles, and it takes about 50 hours of driving time.

Estimating the Drive Time

When driving from Calgary to Philadelphia, you must account for several factors that can affect your arrival time, including traffic patterns, road construction, and weather conditions. Here's an estimate of the drive time you may face:

  • Peak Traffic Time: During rush hour, traffic lights, and road closures, rush hour, the total time you could take when travelling from Calgary to Philadelphia is around 50-60 hours
  • Low Traffic Time: The best option is to travel during the off-peak hours or weekends, where the total time you may take is between 40-45 hours

Tips for the Long Drive

The long drive from Calgary to Philadelphia can be tiring, but why not make it fun? Here are some tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable drive.

  1. Bring the right drivers - A trip this long requires more than one driver, and you must have a few drivers who know how to drive stick just in case.

  2. Pack the right food - Bring snacks and portable meals that can last for the entire trip like granola bars, sandwiches, and pre-packaged meals.

  3. Take a break - Whether it's to stretch out your legs or to refuel, make stopovers in cities or towns on the way.

  4. Make the car comfortable - Make sure you pack a neck pillow, a cozy blanket, and a backrest to keep your passengers comfortable.

In conclusion, while it takes around 40-50 hours to drive from Calgary to Philadelphia, the route you take, traffic patterns, and driving speed can affect arrival time. However, taking the fastest route and driving during low-traffic hours can help you reach your destination more quickly. So, load up your car, get your playlist ready, and plan a stopover in some stunning sights along the way. Happy driving!