The Best Route from Chesterton to Somonauk: Save Time on the Road!

Are you planning a road trip from Chesterton, Indiana to Somonauk, Illinois? Whether you're heading there for a weekend getaway or visiting friends and family, it's important to plan your route well in advance. Nobody wants to waste time sitting in traffic when they could be enjoying their destination! In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the estimated driving time based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route: I-94 W and I-80 W

If efficiency is your top priority, then the fastest route from Chesterton to Somonauk is taking I-94 W and I-80 W. The total distance of this route is approximately 127 miles and it can be covered in just over 2 hours under ideal traffic conditions. During low traffic times, expect a smooth and swift journey through the picturesque landscapes of Indiana and Illinois. However, keep in mind that during peak traffic hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, the travel time might extend to around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Scenic Alternative: US-30 W and IL-23 S

If you prefer a more scenic drive with opportunities for delightful detours, then consider taking an alternative route via US-30 W and IL-23 S. While this route adds a few extra miles, clocking in at around 141 miles, the picturesque countryside and charming small towns along the way make it worth the diversion. During low traffic times, you can expect to reach Somonauk in just under 2 hours and 30 minutes. However, when traffic is heavy, particularly during rush hour, the drive time can increase by about 30 minutes.

Avoiding the Highway: County Roads and State Routes

For those who enjoy taking the road less traveled, there's an alternative scenic route that avoids the highway altogether. By taking various county roads and state routes, the distance becomes approximately 135 miles. This route offers the chance to encounter lesser-known towns and enjoy the rural beauty of Indiana and Illinois. During low traffic times, the estimated driving time is around 3 hours. However, during heavy traffic periods, such as holiday weekends, it's wise to allow an additional 30-45 minutes for travel.

Time-Saving Tip: Plan Around Traffic

To ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey, it's crucial to plan your departure time wisely. Avoiding peak traffic times can significantly reduce your travel time. As a general rule, weekday mornings between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and evenings between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, tend to have heavier traffic. On the other hand, weekends and early afternoons usually offer lighter traffic conditions.

Remember, these estimated driving times are based on average traffic patterns and can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and accidents. To stay up-to-date with real-time traffic information, make use of navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, which provide alternative routes and real-time traffic updates to help you save time on the road.

So, whether you're inclined to take the fastest route or prefer a scenic road trip, plan your journey wisely, consider traffic patterns, and arrive in Somonauk stress-free and ready to enjoy your destination to the fullest! Safe travels!