The Great Drive: Cedar Falls, Iowa to Joplin, Missouri

Are you planning a road trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Joplin, Missouri? Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a more extended vacation, it’s essential to know how long the drive will take. The time it takes to get to your destination can vary based on the route and traffic. Let’s take a closer look at the different routes available and the time it takes to travel them based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route: I-35 and US-71S

The fastest route from Cedar Falls, Iowa, to Joplin, Missouri will be taking I-35 and US-71S. This route covers about 447 miles, and it typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to get there without any stops. However, the time it takes to drive can vary exponentially based on traffic patterns.

During peak traffic hours, the trip may take longer. Rush hour traffic can be terrible in larger cities like Des Moines or Kansas City areas. In situations like that, the trip can take around 8 to 9 hours in total. However, during off-peak hours or weekends, it might take significantly less time than that, perhaps around 5 hours and 45 minutes in total.

The More Scenic Route: IA-3 West and US-71S

If you’re looking to experience some scenic views while driving, the IA-3 W and US-71S route is ideal for you. However, this option is not the fastest route, and it covers a distance of approximately 500 miles, making it around 8 hours of a drive without any stops.

For this particular route, it’s better to travel during off-peak hours or weekends as traffic congestion slows the journey. During peak traffic hours, expect the drive to take up to 10 hours in total. In contrast, during off-peak hours, it may only take around 7 hours in total.

The Slowest Route: US-20 W, IA-9 W, and US-71S

The slowest route is US-20 W, IA-9 W, and US-71S. This particular option covering a distance of approximately 548 miles, and it takes around 9 hours and 30 minutes to get to your destination without stops.

It’s best to avoid this route altogether as it’s the longest route and has multiple slow-down spots. During peak traffic times, the journey may take around 12 to 14 hours, and during off-peak hours, it may take around 8 to 9 hours in total.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the driving time from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Joplin, Missouri varies a lot based on traffic patterns and the route. Factors like road construction, weather, and incidents on the road can also slow the journey time. However, with careful planning and knowledge of the areas, you can save significant time and enjoy your road trip even more. So, before you hop in your ride, be prepared and ready for an enjoyable journey ahead!