Is there a train to Detroit?

Amtrak operates the Wolverine line into Detroit, but you must reach Chicago first.

What is the best highway?

I-80 East is the most direct route for cross-country travel.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Redding require at least one connection.

How long is the drive?

Expect 36 hours of pure driving time excluding stops.

Is it safe to drive alone?

Yes, provided you stay on major interstates and maintain your vehicle.

Anderson

Detroit

Flight Driving

Anderson to Detroit

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

The journey from Anderson to Detroit spans approximately 3,700 kilometers across the United States. The most practical route involves driving to Redding Municipal Airport and taking a connecting flight to Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Alternatively, a cross-country drive via I-80 East offers a scenic but grueling 36-hour transit. You will traverse diverse landscapes including the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Great Plains. Expect significant weather variations when moving from Northern California to the Midwest.

Total Distance: 3,700 km driving, 3,200 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Redding (RDD) to Detroit (DTW) takes 8 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheapest for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Anderson to Detroit Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	36 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $800	$500 - $700 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	RDD to DTW via SFO or DEN hubs.	I-5 N to I-80 E through Nebraska and Chicago.
Tip	Book flights departing from Redding (RDD) to avoid the long drive to Sacramento.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced for high-altitude mountain passes and flat plains.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Always use Redding (RDD) to save three hours of driving to Sacramento.
Time Zones
Prepare for a three-hour time jump moving from Pacific to Eastern Time.
Roadside Stops
Stop in Salt Lake City for a break if driving; it is roughly the halfway point.
Weather Prep
Check for winter storms in the Midwest if traveling between November and March.
Hydration
Keep extra water in your car when crossing the Nevada and Utah deserts.

Safety Tips

Mountain Passes
Use low gears when descending steep grades in the Sierra Nevada.
Fatigue Management
Switch drivers every four hours to maintain alertness on long highway stretches.
Emergency Kit
Carry a jump starter, flashlight, and first aid kit in your vehicle.
Cell Service
Expect dead zones in rural Nevada; download offline maps before departing.