Taking the Scenic Route: Traveling Time Between Cascade, Iowa and Champaign, Illinois

If you're planning a road trip between Cascade, Iowa and Champaign, Illinois, you may be wondering about the best way to travel. After all, we all want to arrive at our destination in a timely manner while still enjoying the journey. From my experience, there are a few possible routes to take, each with its own pros and cons. Here's what you need to know to choose your own adventure!

The Direct Route: Via US-20 E and I-39 S

First up, we have the most direct way to get from Cascade to Champaign: taking US-20 E and I-39 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 230 miles and should take around 4 hours of uninterrupted driving. If your priority is to simply get there as fast as possible, this is the way to go.

However, if you don't mind spending a little more time on the road and would like to see more of the countryside along the way, you might want to consider one of the alternative routes below.

The Scenic Route 1: Via Great River Road and IL-29 S

This route adds some serious scenic value to your trip, as you'll drive along the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding wildlife. To get on this route, you'll need to head south from Cascade on US-52 and then switch to Great River Road when possible. From there, you can take IL-29 S to Champaign.

The total distance covered on this route is around 270 miles, and it should take roughly 5 hours of driving time. However, there are plenty of charming towns and lookout points to stop at along the way, so plan on taking more time to soak in the surroundings if you can.

The Scenic Route 2: Via US-151 S and I-80 E

Another way to incorporate some scenic stretches into your road trip is to head south on US-151 from Cascade and then take I-80 E towards Champaign. This route will take you through hilly terrain and lovely farm country, with plenty of picturesque towns to explore if you're so inclined.

The distance covered on this route is roughly 250 miles, and it should take around 4.5 hours of driving time. Some recommended stops along the way include the charming town of Galena, IL, and Starved Rock State Park for some hiking and nature appreciation.

Wrapping Up

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of interesting sights and experiences waiting for you along the way. Make sure to pack snacks, plenty of driving tunes, and a sense of adventure as you embark on your journey. With a little planning and flexibility, you're sure to arrive in Champaign feeling refreshed and ready to explore. Happy travels!