Is the Expressway from Hanzhong to Baoji Open Now?
3 Answers
The expressway from Hanzhong to Baoji is not open yet. The Baoji-Hanzhong Expressway is scheduled to open in 2021. The Baoji-Hanzhong Expressway (Baoji to Hanzhong Expressway) is part of the Yin-Kun Expressway (G85) and a crucial component of the north-south vertical line in the 2367 Expressway Network Plan. It serves as a major expressway corridor connecting the northwest and southwest regions of China. The Baoji-Hanzhong Expressway connects to Pingliang, Gansu in the north, passes through Baoji City and Hanzhong City to reach Bazhong, Sichuan in the south, and links three national expressways: Lianhuo, Shitian, and Jingkun. Once completed, it will take only 2 hours to travel from Baoji to Hanzhong via the Baoji-Hanzhong Expressway.
I remember the Hanzhong-Pingkan section of the Yin-Kun Expressway officially opened at the end of last year, connecting Puzhen Interchange in Hanzhong directly to Pingkan Town in Baoji. Driving on this expressway is now exceptionally smooth, with winding mountain roads and tunnels one after another along the way. It takes about two and a half hours to drive, which is more than twice as fast as taking the old national highway. However, I should remind you that mountain sections often have heavy fog and ice, so it's best to check the real-time weather before setting off. Also, the speed limit in the Baoji tunnel group is 80, so remember not to exceed it. The service areas are still being gradually improved, so it's best to fill up your tank before departure.
I just drove on this highway last month, and it's indeed fully connected now! You can get on the highway from Chenggu, Hanzhong, pass through the Qinling Tunnel Group, and arrive in Baoji. If you're driving an electric car, there are charging stations available at the service areas along the way. It saves a lot of time compared to before, but the signal is poor in the tunnels, so it's safer to download offline maps in advance. Be extra cautious about slippery roads during rainy days, especially when crossing bridges. If you're planning a weekend trip, I recommend avoiding peak hours as this route gets quite busy during holidays now.