The Great Road Trip: Exploring the Best Routes Between Cedar Falls, Iowa and Denver, Colorado

Are you planning a cross-country trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Denver, Colorado? Well, you couldn't have picked a better road trip destination than the Rocky Mountains! But before you hit the road, it's essential to map out your route and estimate driving times based on traffic patterns. In this blog post, we will explore the different routes available, their respective distances, and the estimated travel time during peak and low traffic times.

The Fastest Route: Taking I-80 and I-76

If you're looking to get to Denver as fast as possible, taking I-80 and I-76 is your best bet. This route covers a distance of approximately 765 miles and takes around 11 hours and 47 minutes to drive without stops. However, this estimate may vary based on traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, you can expect to add an additional 1-2 hours to your travel time. Alternatively, early morning or late-night driving may reduce your travel time by 1-2 hours since there is less traffic on the roads.

The Scenic Route: Taking I-29 and I-90

If you're a nature lover, taking the scenic route is a no-brainer. This route covers a distance of approximately 1091 miles and takes around 16 hours and 30 minutes to drive without stops. While this route is approximately 300 miles longer than the fastest route, it offers some stunning views of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. However, it's essential to note that this route may have more winding or mountainous roads, which can affect your travel time. During peak traffic times, you can expect to add an additional 2-3 hours to your travel time. Similarly, early morning or late-night drives may reduce your travel time by 2-3 hours.

The Northern Route: Taking I-35 and I-80

If you want to explore some Midwestern states, taking the Northern route is a great option. This route covers a distance of approximately 1025 miles and takes around 15 hours and 36 minutes to drive without stops. This route takes you through some of America's most gorgeous states, from Iowa's cornfields to Nebraska's grasslands and Wyoming's rugged mountains. During peak traffic times, you can expect to add an additional 2-3 hours to your travel time. Alternatively, early morning or late-night driving may reduce your travel time by 2-3 hours.

The Slowest Route: Taking US-30 and US-385

If you have some extra time on your hands and want to take things slow, taking US-30 and US-385 is your best bet. This route covers a distance of approximately 1204 miles and takes around 22 hours and 48 minutes to drive without stops. While this route is approximately 400 miles longer than the fastest route, it lets you explore some of the West's most remote and beautiful landscapes. However, this route may have more rural roads, which can be slow-going. Therefore, it may take you an additional hour or two to travel during peak traffic times as well as early morning or late-night driving.

Conclusion

Now that you have an idea of the different routes and estimated travel times, it's up to you to decide which route you want to take. Whether you opt for the fastest or most scenic route or take your time to explore America's remote corners, one thing is for sure: this road trip will be an adventure to remember! Be sure to prepare your car, pack snacks, and enjoy all the beautiful sights along the way. Happy travels!