"From Missouri to Iowa: What's the Drive Time like?"

As someone who enjoys road trips, I know that estimating the time it takes to reach your destination is crucial. It's helpful in deciding what time to leave and which route to take, especially when it comes to longer trips like driving from Canton, Missouri to Des Moines, Iowa. Calculating the driving time can be a hassle, but don't fret because I've got you covered.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route to reach Des Moines from Canton is to take US-61 N and I-80 W, which covers a distance of approximately 221 miles. If you're driving continuously on this route, it should take you roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes. However, this is just an estimation, and the actual driving time depends on the traffic you encounter on your way.

The Slowest Route

If you're not in a hurry and wish to take the scenic route, you can consider taking MO-16 W and MO-151 N, which then merges into US-63 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 233 miles and takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach Des Moines. This route takes slightly longer due to the smaller roads and reduced speed limits compared to the faster route through highways.

Traffic Patterns

The driving time mentioned above is based on the assumption that you have a clear route with no roadblocks or traffic issues. But the reality is that traffic can fluctuate. You might encounter traffic congestion during rush-hour traffic that could cause significant delays. If you're driving from Canton to Des Moines during peak traffic time, you can expect it to take slightly longer than usual, up to 4 hours, especially on the faster route. On the other hand, during low traffic hours, you can expect to make it in 3 hours or less commonly.

Which Route Should You Take?

Since the fastest route is also the shortest, it's recommended to opt for the same. However, if you're looking for a scenic drive with picturesque views, you might consider taking the slower route. In case you're not familiar with the area and traffic patterns on the routes, it's advisable to check traffic updates and maps before hitting the road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from Canton, Missouri, to Des Moines, Iowa, will take anywhere from 3 to 4.5 hours, based on the route you select and the traffic you encounter. Plan your trip accordingly, while keeping in mind the time of day and traffic patterns. Regardless of the route you choose, enjoy the drive and the beautiful scenes that Missouri and Iowa have to offer. Have a safe trip!