Ames to North La Crosse: Road Trip Guide & Distance

173.4 miles 279 km · straight line
216.7 miles estimated 348.8 km · driving distance
4h 22min estimated drive time
$21 - $26 estimated fuel cost
~51min flight time
43° NE bearing direction

How far is Ames from North La Crosse?

The distance from Ames to North La Crosse is 173.4 miles (279 km) as the crow flies. North La Crosse is located NE of Ames. By car, the driving distance is approximately 216.7 miles, taking about 4h 22min. A direct flight would take roughly 51min. Both are located in United States — Ames in Iowa and North La Crosse in Wisconsin.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Ames and North La Crosse. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Ames to North La Crosse

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 4h 22min $21 - $26 Flexible stops
Fly ~51min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~5h 14min $17–$33* Budget
Train ~4h 9min $26–$76* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Ames & North La Crosse

Quick Facts

Ames
42.03°N, 93.62°W
America/Chicago
287m elevation
North La Crosse
43.85°N, 91.25°W
America/Chicago
197m elevation
Explore more routes from North La Crosse

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 58 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 14 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 143.6 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients