Des Moines, IOWA → Memphis, TN
486 mi · 9h 42m (driving)
Current Risk
Low Risk
Clear conditions along your route
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Des Moines
34°
Macon County
46°
Osage County
47°
Ripley County
49°
Memphis
42°
Trip Briefing
4 segments · 486 mi · 9h 43m
Weather
☀️ Clear sky
46°F, wind 6 mph
Rest Stops
4
Truck svc
Clear driving conditions expected
Rest stops in this segment:
- ● QuikTrip
- ● Flying J Travel Center
- ● Rest Area
Normal Traffic
No traffic incidents reported
Traffic Cameras
See recent road conditions along your route
Images are snapshots updated periodically by state DOTs. Timestamps shown in images indicate when each photo was captured.
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Via I-235 East → US-61 → ... → I-40 → US-78
Cameras shown are along this computed route
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⚡ Recent Weather Events on This Route
Premium users received alerts for these conditions:
- 🌧️Nov 13: Rain advisory for afternoon departures
- ❄️Nov 11: Snow expected at higher elevations - consider earlier departure
- 🌫️Nov 8: Dense fog warning for morning travel
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Driving from Des Moines, IOWA to Memphis, TN covers 486 miles in roughly 9h 42m of drive time, crossing state lines. We track 51 rest areas along this corridor so you can plan around them. Most drivers do this trip in one day; weather along the route matters more than the forecast at either endpoint, since you'll cross several climate zones.
7-Day Driving Outlook
Today
Nov 15
48° / 34°
No precip
Tomorrow
Nov 16
53° / 32°
No precip
Tue
Nov 17
56° / 38°
No precip
Wed
Nov 18
55° / 45°
No precip
Thu
Nov 19
56° / 53°
No precip
Fri
Nov 20
55° / 40°
No precip
Sat
Nov 21
60° / 54°
No precip
🗓️ Weekend Outlook
Saturday
Good to Go🌦️ Moderate rain showers at origin, ⛅ Partly cloudy at destination
Sunday
Good to Go🌤️ Mainly clear at origin, ⛅ Partly cloudy at destination
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Current Conditions
Des Moines, IOWA
34°F
Wind: 2 mph
Memphis, TN
42°F
Wind: 4 mph
Weather data updated in real-time
Driving from Des Moines, IOWA to Memphis, TN
The 486-mile drive from Des Moines, IOWA to Memphis, Tennessee takes approximately 9h 42m under normal conditions. Weather along this route can vary significantly, especially across varying terrain where weather conditions can change rapidly. Route Outlook helps you find the safest time to travel by showing you weather conditions at every point along your route, timed to when you'll actually be there.
This long-distance route crosses state lines from IOWA into Tennessee, connecting Des Moines and Memphis. Covering 486 miles, this is a substantial drive that will take you through diverse terrain and weather patterns. Planning ahead with real-time conditions along the entire route — not just at your destination — is essential for a safe trip.
Common Weather Hazards on This Route
- Sudden rain showers reducing visibility
- High winds affecting vehicle stability
- Seasonal weather changes impacting road conditions
Seasonal Driving Considerations
Weather along this route varies by season. Winter months can bring snow, ice, and reduced visibility, while summer may see thunderstorms, heat-related road issues, or construction zones. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable driving conditions but can still surprise with sudden weather changes. Regardless of season, checking real-time conditions along your entire route before departing can help you avoid the worst of it.
Best Time to Drive Des Moines to Memphis
For medium-distance drives like this 486-mile route, consider starting in the early morning to arrive before afternoon storms develop. Check the 7-day forecast above to find a day with favorable conditions along the entire route.
Driving Strategy
A 486-mile drive from Des Moines to Memphis takes a significant part of the day. Plan at least one fuel and rest stop along the way. If your route crosses elevation changes or state lines, expect weather conditions to shift mid-trip. Monitor the segment-by-segment forecast rather than just checking destination weather. Starting early in the morning typically avoids afternoon storm development and rush-hour congestion near urban areas.
Pro Tip
Use Route Outlook's departure optimizer to find the best time to leave. Our 4D trajectory engine considers weather at each point along your route at the exact time you'll be there — not just at your destination. It also integrates live data from traffic cameras, DOT 511 feeds, and road weather sensors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Des Moines to Memphis?
The drive is approximately 486 miles and takes about 9h 42m under normal traffic and weather conditions. Severe weather can add significant time to your trip.
What's the best day to drive this route?
Based on current forecasts, Today (Nov 15) looks ideal. Clear conditions expected along the entire route
Is it safe to drive from Des Moines to Memphis today?
Current conditions show low risk along this route. Conditions look favorable for travel. Always stay alert and adjust speed for changing conditions.
Are there rest areas on the Des Moines to Memphis route?
Yes, there are 51 rest areas along this route. Facilities include restrooms, parking, and in some cases picnic areas and vending machines. Rest stops are spaced throughout the drive, so you'll never be too far from a break.
Are there any road closures on this route right now?
No significant incidents or road closures are currently reported along this route. Conditions can change quickly — this page updates automatically with the latest data from state DOT 511 systems.
Related Driving Guides
Finding the Safest Time to Drive: A Data-Driven Approach
Learn how 4D trajectory analysis can help you find the optimal departure time to avoid dangerous weather and traffic.
🛣️How to Check Road Conditions Before a Trip: All Your Options
A practical guide to every method for checking driving conditions--weather apps, 511 sites, traffic cameras, radio, and more. Pros, cons, and when to use each.
🧠Route Intelligence: The Smarter Way to Plan Road Trips
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