Is there a train from Tower to LA?

No, you must drive to St. Paul to catch the Amtrak Empire Builder.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 32 hours of pure road time.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Northern Minnesota to LAX require at least one connection.

What is the best highway?

I-90 is the primary interstate for cross-country travel from the Midwest.

Is it cheaper to fly or drive?

Flying is cheaper for solo travelers; driving is cheaper for groups.

Tower

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Tower to Los Angeles

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Tower, Minnesota to Los Angeles requires a multi-modal approach starting with a drive to Duluth International Airport. You will cover approximately 2,100 miles of land distance. Flights typically connect through hubs like Minneapolis or Denver. Driving involves taking US-53 south to I-35, then transitioning to I-90 west and I-15 south. This journey spans diverse landscapes from the Northwoods to the Mojave Desert.

Total Distance: 3,380 km driving distance; 2,650 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Duluth International Airport (DLH) takes roughly 7 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective method.

Compare Tower to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	32 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $600	$400 - $700 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	DLH to MSP to LAX	US-53 S to I-35 S to I-90 W to I-15 S
Tip	Book your flight from Duluth International Airport to avoid the long drive to Minneapolis.	Check your tire pressure before crossing the high-altitude passes in Utah.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Always check flights from Duluth (DLH) before Minneapolis (MSP) to save on local travel time.
Mountain Driving
If driving, ensure your brakes are serviced for the steep descents on I-15 in Utah.
Time Zones
Remember you will cross two time zones moving from Central to Pacific time.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in major cities along I-90 to avoid high prices in remote rural stretches.
Packing
Pack layers as you will transition from humid Minnesota to arid California climates.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid driving through the Rockies in winter unless you have snow tires and chains.
Hydration
Keep extra water in your car when crossing the Nevada and California deserts.
Vehicle Check
Check your coolant levels before entering the desert heat of Southern California.
Emergency Kit
Carry a satellite messenger or emergency radio for remote stretches of I-80/I-15.