Cruising from College Park to Reston: A Drive Time Comparison

When it comes to road trips, planning your route and estimating drive time is a crucial part of the journey. If you're thinking about driving from College Park, Maryland to Reston, Virginia, you have a few different route options to consider. Let's take a look at the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the estimated drive time based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route: I-495 S

The fastest route from College Park to Reston is typically via I-495 S. This route spans approximately 30 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes about 45 minutes. Keep in mind that this time may vary depending on traffic patterns and the time of day. During low traffic times, such as late at night or early in the morning, you can expect the drive to take around 40 minutes.

Slowest Route: US-29 S and I-66 W

On the other hand, the slowest route from College Park to Reston usually involves taking US-29 S and I-66 W. This route covers a similar distance of approximately 30 miles, but due to heavier traffic and potential congestion on I-66, the drive time can reach up to 1 hour or more during peak traffic times. However, during off-peak hours, the drive time can be reduced to around 50 minutes.

In conclusion, while the fastest route through I-495 S ensures a quicker drive time, the slowest route via US-29 S and I-66 W can experience heavier traffic, leading to longer travel times. Regardless of which route you choose, always keep an eye on traffic updates and consider the time of day to ensure a smoother drive. Safe travels!