How Long Is Seattle to California Road Trip?

By Alice Nichols

Taking a road trip from Seattle to California is an exciting adventure that many people dream of experiencing. However, the question on everyone’s mind is, “how long is the journey?”

The answer to this question depends on several factors such as the route you take, mode of transportation, and stops along the way. In this article, we’ll explore all these factors to give a comprehensive answer to this question.

Route Options

The route you choose plays a significant role in determining how long the journey will take. There are various routes you can take from Seattle to California, including:

Option 1: Via I-5 South

This option is the most direct route from Seattle to California. It involves taking I-5 South all the way down to California.

The distance between Seattle and San Francisco along this route is approximately 810 miles. If you drive for eight hours per day at an average speed of 60mph, it will take you about three days to complete the trip.

Option 2: Pacific Coast Highway

If you’re looking for a more scenic route that takes longer but offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, then Pacific Coast Highway is your best bet. This option involves taking US-101 South and CA-1 South through Oregon and California’s coastal towns.

The distance between Seattle and Los Angeles along this route is approximately 1,200 miles. If you drive for eight hours per day at an average speed of 60mph, it will take you about five days to complete the trip.

Mode of Transportation

Another factor that affects how long your road trip will be is your mode of transportation. If you’re driving yourself or taking a bus or train, then your journey’s duration will be determined by how long it takes to complete your chosen route. However, if you decide to fly, then your journey’s duration will be significantly shorter.

Stops Along the Way

The number of stops you make along the way also affects how long your journey will take. If you’re driving yourself, taking frequent breaks to rest and explore the towns and cities along the way can add a few extra days to your trip. However, if you’re taking a bus or train, then your journey’s duration will depend on the number of scheduled stops.

Conclusion

In conclusion, how long a road trip from Seattle to California takes depends on several factors such as route options, mode of transportation, and stops along the way. If you opt for the most direct route via I-5 South, it will take you about three days to complete the trip.

However, if you choose to take Pacific Coast Highway for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, it will take about five days to complete the journey. Whatever option you choose, remember to have fun and enjoy every moment of your road trip!