The Drive from Cokato, Minnesota to Spirit Lake, Iowa: What You Need to Know

Are you planning a road trip from Cokato, Minnesota to Spirit Lake, Iowa? Whether you're headed to the Lake Okoboji area for a relaxing vacation or visiting family and friends, it's important to know the driving time and best route to take. Here's everything you need to know about the drive!

Fastest Route: via US-71

If you're looking to get to Spirit Lake as quickly as possible, the fastest route is via US-71 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 125 miles and typically takes around 2 hours to drive under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak traffic times, such as weekday rush hour, the drive time can increase to around 2.5 hours. On the other hand, driving during low traffic times, such as early in the morning or late at night, can cut the drive time down to around 1.5 hours.

Scenic Route: via US-12 W and IA-86 S

For those looking to enjoy a more scenic drive, consider taking the route via US-12 West and IA-86 South. While this route is slightly longer, covering a distance of approximately 140 miles, it offers beautiful views and the opportunity to explore charming small towns along the way. Under normal traffic conditions, this route takes around 2.5 hours to drive. However, during peak traffic times, such as summer weekends, it can take up to 3 hours. Driving during low traffic times can reduce the drive time to around 2 hours.

Slowest Route: via County Highways

If you have some extra time to spare and want to take a leisurely drive, consider taking the route via county highways. While this route covers a distance of approximately 150 miles, it allows you to explore the countryside at a more relaxed pace. Under normal traffic conditions, this route takes around 3 hours to drive. During peak traffic times, the drive time can increase to around 3.5 hours. However, driving during low traffic times can bring the drive time down to around 2.5 hours.

Whether you're in a hurry to reach your destination or looking to enjoy a scenic drive, there are multiple route options for driving from Cokato, Minnesota to Spirit Lake, Iowa. Consider the distance, traffic patterns, and drive times when planning your journey, and get ready for a memorable road trip experience!