Road Trip Ready: How Long Does It Take to Drive from Des Moines to Carroll, Iowa?

Planning a trip from Des Moines to Carroll, Iowa? Whether you're heading for a weekend adventure or just a quick getaway, knowing the travel time and the best routes can save you a lot of hassle. Let’s explore the various options and see how long your drive will really take, depending on the traffic patterns!

The Direct Route: Fastest Way to Carroll

The most straightforward route from Des Moines to Carroll is via I-80 W and US-71 N. This path spans approximately 90 miles, and under ideal driving conditions, you can expect a travel time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, if you hit peak traffic during a weekday or at busy times on weekends, that time could easily stretch to around 2 hours or more. Since this route hugs the interstate, it usually offers a smoother drive compared to secondary roads.

Avoiding the Bumps: Alternative Scenery

If you’re in the mood for a scenic drive, consider taking the backroads. You can opt for a route that uses IA-141 W, which meanders a bit and takes you through some charming landscapes. This route is approximately 100 miles long, and while it may take a bit longer—around 1 hour and 45 minutes under normal conditions—you might just spot some lovely Iowa countryside along the way. Keep in mind, though, that during peak hours, this drive can take upwards of 2 hours and 30 minutes, especially near small towns where traffic might build up.

Timing is Everything: Traffic Patterns Matter

A key factor influencing your travel time is traffic. Early morning and late afternoon on weekdays can lead to delays, particularly as commuters populate the roads around Des Moines. If you can manage to plan your trip either before 7 AM or after 7 PM, you could save yourself quite a bit of time. Low traffic times typically allow for that ideal 1 hour and 30 minutes on the direct route!

Conversely, the slowest times, particularly during Friday evening rush hour or Sunday afternoons, can extend your trip significantly if you’re not careful. It's not uncommon to find yourself caught in traffic jams, making that usually quick drive drag on for over 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Conclusion: Which Route to Choose?

In conclusion, your driving time from Des Moines to Carroll largely hinges on the route you choose and the time of day. For the quickest journey, stick with the direct route via I-80 W and US-71 N. Alternatively, if you have a little extra time and are seeking a more picturesque drive, the IA-141 W route offers charm at the cost of additional travel time. Whichever way you decide to go, safe travels and enjoy the journey from Des Moines to Carroll!