Oskaloosa, IA → Minneapolis, MN
256 mi · 5h 7m (driving)
Current Risk
High Risk
Flood Watch in effect — consider delaying
Oskaloosa
73°
Grundy County
72°
Moscow Township
71°
Minneapolis
75°
Trip Briefing
3 segments · 256 mi · 5h 8m
Weather
☁️ Overcast
72°F, wind 4 mph
Rest Stops
6
Truck svc, Restrooms
Clear driving conditions expected
Rest stops in this segment:
- ● Rest Area
- ● Flying J Travel Center
- ● QuikTrip
Weather May Slow Traffic
Active weather advisory — expect slower travel
Traffic Cameras
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Images are snapshots updated periodically by state DOTs. Timestamps shown in images indicate when each photo was captured.
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Via US-65 → I-80 → I-35 North → I-35W North
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28 stops available
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⚡ Recent Weather Events on This Route
Premium users received alerts for these conditions:
- 🌧️Aug 11: Rain advisory for afternoon departures
- ❄️Aug 9: Snow expected at higher elevations - consider earlier departure
- 🌫️Aug 6: Dense fog warning for morning travel
Don't miss the next alert →
Driving from Oskaloosa, IA to Minneapolis, MN covers 256 miles in roughly 5h 7m of drive time, crossing state lines. We track 28 rest areas and 1 active weather alert 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
Aug 13
83° / 71°
78% precip
Tomorrow
Aug 14
86° / 72°
49% precip
Sat
Aug 15
85° / 71°
56% precip
Sun
Aug 16
77° / 65°
41% precip
Mon
Aug 17
82° / 60°
5% precip
Tue
Aug 18
81° / 65°
22% precip
Wed
Aug 19
77° / 67°
22% precip
🗓️ Weekend Outlook
Saturday
Use Caution☁️ Overcast → 🌧️ Moderate drizzle. Use caution.
Sunday
Good to Go🌦️ Slight rain showers at origin, ☁️ Overcast at destination
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Current Conditions
Oskaloosa, IA
73°F
Wind: 4 mph
Minneapolis, MN
75°F
Wind: 3 mph
Weather data updated in real-time
Driving from Oskaloosa, IA to Minneapolis, MN
The 256-mile drive from Oskaloosa, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota takes approximately 5h 7m under normal conditions. Weather along this route can vary significantly, especially across open plains where severe weather and high winds can develop quickly. 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 moderate route crosses state lines from Iowa into Minnesota, connecting Oskaloosa and Minneapolis. A drive of 256 miles means you'll pass through multiple weather zones. Conditions at your starting point may bear little resemblance to what you'll encounter halfway through the trip.
Common Weather Hazards on This Route
- Winter storms and heavy snowfall (November through April)
- Black ice on mountain passes and bridges
Seasonal Driving Considerations
The Midwest corridor of this route is susceptible to rapid weather changes. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are a real threat from April through June, while winter brings heavy lake-effect snow, ice storms, and dangerously low wind chill. Flat terrain means high crosswinds can affect vehicle stability year-round, especially for taller vehicles. Spring flooding can also close highway underpasses and low-lying road segments.
Best Time to Drive Oskaloosa to Minneapolis
For medium-distance drives like this 256-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 256-mile drive from Oskaloosa to Minneapolis 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 Oskaloosa to Minneapolis?
The drive is approximately 256 miles and takes about 5h 7m 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, Sunday, Aug 16 looks ideal. Calm winds and the best conditions this week
Is it safe to drive from Oskaloosa to Minneapolis today?
Current conditions show high risk along this route. Conditions look favorable for travel. Always stay alert and adjust speed for changing conditions.
Are there rest areas on the Oskaloosa to Minneapolis route?
Yes, there are 28 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.
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