Devils Lake
Devils Lake
San Francisco
San Francisco
Driving

Devils Lake to San Francisco

Updated: 29 May 2026

The drive from Devils Lake to San Francisco is a 1,700-mile trip that takes you across the American West. You will travel west on US-2 to Minot, then south on US-83 to I-90, west on I-90 to I-80, and finally west on I-80 to San Francisco. The drive typically takes about 25 hours. This route connects the rural lake region to the major metropolitan area of San Francisco.

Total Distance: 2,740 km driving distance; 2,300 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via US-2, US-83, I-90, and I-80 is the fastest and only direct route.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and affordable option.
Compare Devils Lake to San Francisco Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
25 hours
Avg Price
$330-$430 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-2 W to US-83 S to I-90 W to I-80 W.

Expect heavy traffic in the San Francisco area, especially during rush hour.

Travel Tips
  • Speed Limits
    Be careful to slow down when entering the small towns along the route.
  • Weather
    Winter storms can make I-90 and I-80 treacherous; check the NDDOT, SDDOT, WyDOT, and Caltrans websites before departing.
  • Fueling
    There are many fuel stations along the route, especially in larger cities like Billings and Salt Lake City.
  • Traffic
    Expect heavy traffic when entering the San Francisco metropolitan area, especially during rush hour.
  • Navigation
    The route is well-marked, but keep a GPS device or map handy for the transition between highways.
Safety Tips
  • Winter Driving
    Always carry a winter emergency kit, as blowing snow can reduce visibility to zero.
  • Wildlife
    Deer and elk are frequently seen near the highway; stay alert at all times.
  • Fatigue
    Take regular breaks to stay alert on this long drive.
  • Visibility
    Use your headlights during the day if conditions are overcast or snowy.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a bus?
    There is no regular, scheduled bus service between these two cities.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes about 25 hours.
  • What is the best route?
    Taking US-2 to US-83 to I-90 to I-80 is the most efficient path.
  • Are there tolls?
    No, there are no toll roads on this route.
  • 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 San Francisco, California, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Late spring to early autumn for the best driving conditions.

Things to Do in San Francisco
1
Golden Gate Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge that is a symbol of San Francisco.
2
Alcatraz Island
A historic island that was once a federal prison and is now a popular tourist destination.
3
Fisherman's Wharf
A vibrant waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
4
Golden Gate Park
A beautiful park with a wide variety of gardens, museums, and attractions.
Tags
Devils Lake to San Francisco drive I-90 to I-80 route North Dakota to California travel driving to San Francisco Devils Lake to San Francisco distance best way to get to San Francisco cross-country road trip traveling from Devils Lake San Francisco transportation highway travel
More to Devils Lake