Road Trip from Carbondale, Illinois to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio: How Long Does It Take?

Planning a road trip can be pretty exciting, but if you are traveling to a new city, it can be a bit daunting. If you’re planning to travel from Carbondale, Illinois, to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, you’ll want to take into account the time it takes to drive. So, let’s look at some different routes and how long it takes to get there.

The Fastest Route: I-70 and I-71

If you're looking for the quickest route, then you'll want to take I-70 and I-71. The distance between Carbondale and Cuyahoga Falls using this route is about 485 miles, and if you are driving at a normal speed, it should take around 7 hours. However, if you include stops, traffic, and eating, it could take up to 8-10 hours.

The Scenic Route: IL-3 and OH-7

If you want to take the scenic route, then you might prefer driving using IL-3 and OH-7. The distance between Carbondale and Cuyahoga Falls on this route is about 597 miles, and if you factor in stops, traffic, and eating, it could take around 9-11 hours. Although this route is longer, you'll get to see some stunning views of rolling hills, scenic countryside, and quaint towns.

Time It Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

If you're driving during weekdays, you may hit rush hour traffic, and your journey may take longer. On average, peak traffic starts at 7:30 AM and ends at 9:30 AM in both cities. After that, traffic starts to ease up. However, there's a good chance you'll hit rush hour again in the late afternoon and early evening. So, you may want to avoid driving between 4-6 PM.

If you're driving on a weekend, you're more likely to encounter traffic around popular tourist destinations. Also, construction and road closures can impact your journey regardless of the time of day. So, you may want to keep an eye on those updates before hitting the road.

Final Thoughts

No matter what route you choose, be sure to take breaks if you're feeling tired, and stretch your legs. Driving through small towns and unfamiliar roads can be tiring, so it's essential to take rest stops and stay alert. Overall, the time it takes to get from Carbondale, Illinois, to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, depends on your route, driving speed, traffic conditions, and other variables. Nonetheless, with different routes to choose from, your journey can be an enjoyable experience.