Seattle to Boulder

23h 32m
Drive Time
1295
Miles
$151
Gas Cost
10
Stops
Open in Google Maps ↩ Reverse EV Route

How Long Is the Drive from Seattle to Boulder?

The drive from Seattle to Boulder takes approximately 23h 32m, covering 1295 miles via the highway. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $151 on gas.

Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 32–33+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.

Traffic Estimate

🟢 Light traffic
20h
🔵 Typical
23h 32m
🔴 Heavy traffic
34h 7m

Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.

Route Details

Distance1295 mi
Drive Time23h 32min
Avg Speed55 mph

Cost Breakdown

Gas (30 MPG)$151
Tolls (est.)$0-20
Total$166-$201

Route Tips: I-90

Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours on longer drives. Check traffic conditions before departure and keep your tank above quarter-full.

You'll likely need 3 fuel stops along the way.

Best Time to Drive from Seattle to Boulder

For a long drive like Seattle to Boulder, plan to depart early in the morning. This lets you cover most of the distance before afternoon traffic builds up. Consider breaking the trip with a lunch stop midway.

🟢 Best: Early morning (6-8 AM)
🔴 Avoid: Rush hour (4-7 PM)

Driving vs Flying

🚗 Driving
23h 32m
~$151 gas
✈️ Flying
5h 5m
~$194–$453 flight

✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~2h 35m but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.

All Travel Options

🚗 Drive
23h 32m
~$151
🚌 Bus
28h 47m
~$104–$233
🚂 Train
23h 33m
~$155–$388

Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.

Suggested Stops

Popular cities along the route for rest, food, or fuel:

📍 Sun Valley
📍 Boise
📍 Jackson Hole

FAQ

How long is the drive from Seattle to Boulder?
The drive takes approximately 23 hours and 32 minutes covering 1295 miles.
How much gas will I need?
At 30 MPG, you'll use about 43 gallons of gas, costing approximately $151 at $3.50/gallon.
What's the best time to leave?
Early morning (6-8 AM) is ideal to avoid rush hour traffic.

Explore Cities

All routes from Seattle All routes from Boulder