How Long Is a Road Trip From Seattle to Los Angeles?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles? If so, you may be wondering how long the journey will take.

The distance between these two cities is approximately 1,130 miles, which means you will need to plan for a few days on the road. However, the exact duration of your trip will depend on several factors, such as your route, mode of transportation, and planned stops along the way.

Driving Time

If you are driving from Seattle to Los Angeles without any stops, it will take approximately 18 hours. However, this assumes that you are driving continuously without any breaks or rest stops. It is important to note that this time frame may vary depending on traffic conditions and road closures.

Route Options

There are several routes you can take from Seattle to Los Angeles. The most direct route is via Interstate 5 South, which takes you through Portland and Sacramento before reaching Los Angeles. This route covers a distance of around 1,130 miles and takes approximately 18 hours of driving time.

Alternatively, you can take a more scenic route along the Pacific Coast Highway (also known as Highway 1). This route takes longer (around 21 hours of driving time) but offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and allows for stops at popular tourist attractions such as San Francisco and Santa Barbara.

Mode of Transportation

The duration of your road trip will also depend on your mode of transportation. If you are driving your own car or renting one, it may take longer due to rest stops and refueling breaks. On the other hand, if you choose to fly to either city then rent a car for the remainder of your trip, it could significantly reduce your travel time but at an expense.

Planned Stops Along The Way

Lastly, if planned right stops can make a huge difference in the duration of your trip. If you want to take your time and enjoy the journey, consider stopping at popular tourist attractions along the way, such as Crater Lake National Park or Redwood National and State Parks. You can also plan for overnight stays in cities along the route.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the duration of a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles will depend on several factors such as your route, mode of transportation, and planned stops along the way. While it may take around 18 hours of driving time without any stops, adding scenic routes and tourist attractions will make for a longer journey but one with memorable experiences!