Driving
Devils Lake to Phoenix
Updated: 29 May 2026
The drive from Devils Lake to Phoenix is a 1,600-mile trip that takes you across the American West. You will travel south on US-281 to I-94, west on I-94 to I-25, south on I-25 to I-40, west on I-40 to I-17, and finally south on I-17 to Phoenix. The drive typically takes about 24 hours. This route connects the rural lake region to the major metropolitan area of Phoenix.
Total Distance: 2,570 km driving distance; 2,250 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via US-281, I-94, I-25, I-40, and I-17 is the fastest and only direct route.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and affordable option.
Compare Devils Lake to Phoenix Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
24 hours
Avg Price
$300-$400 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-281 S to I-94 W to I-25 S to I-40 W to I-17 S.
Expect heavy traffic in the Phoenix area, especially during rush hour.
Travel Tips
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Speed LimitsBe careful to slow down when entering the small towns along the route.
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WeatherWinter storms can make I-25 and I-40 treacherous; check the NDDOT, SDDOT, WyDOT, CoDOT, and ADOT websites before departing.
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FuelingThere are many fuel stations along the route, especially in larger cities like Denver and Albuquerque.
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TrafficExpect heavy traffic when entering the Phoenix metropolitan area, especially during rush hour.
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NavigationThe route is well-marked, but keep a GPS device or map handy for the transition between highways.
Safety Tips
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Winter DrivingAlways carry a winter emergency kit, as blowing snow can reduce visibility to zero.
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WildlifeDeer and elk are frequently seen near the highway; stay alert at all times.
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FatigueTake regular breaks to stay alert on this long drive.
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VisibilityUse your headlights during the day if conditions are overcast or snowy.
People Also Ask
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Is there a bus?There is no regular, scheduled bus service between these two cities.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes about 24 hours.
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What is the best route?Taking US-281 to I-94 to I-25 to I-40 to I-17 is the most efficient path.
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Are there tolls?No, there are no toll roads on this route.
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Is it a safe drive?Yes, it is a standard highway drive, though winter weather requires caution.
Quick Info
- From Devils Lake, North Dakota, United States
- To Phoenix, Arizona, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Late spring to early autumn for the best driving conditions.
Things to Do in Phoenix
1
Desert Botanical Garden
A beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of desert plants and flowers.
2
Phoenix Art Museum
A world-class art museum with an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and more.
3
Heard Museum
A museum dedicated to the art and culture of the indigenous peoples of the Southwest.
4
Papago Park
A beautiful park with stunning red rock formations and hiking trails.
Tags
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I-29 to I-17 route
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