Driving Cost from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California

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The Cost of Driving from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California

If you're planning a road trip from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California, you're in for a treat. The drive from these two cities offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country. However, before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of the trip, including gas, tolls, food, and other expenses. In this article, we'll discuss different routes, provide an estimate of costs, and recommend the best route for your trip.

Route Options

There are three routes you can take when driving from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California, and each route offers a different experience. It's important to consider your timeline and personal preferences before choosing which route to take.

Route 1: I-70W and I-15S

This route goes through the heart of Colorado and Utah before crossing into Nevada and finally into California. You'll pass through famous national parks such as Arches, Zion, and Bryce Canyon. The total distance is 1,090 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 17 hours.

Route 2: I-80W and I-5S

This route takes you through Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and finally California. You'll drive through beautiful landscapes such as the Great Salt Lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The total distance is 1,220 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 18 hours.

Route 3: I-40W and I-15S

This route passes through New Mexico and Arizona before entering California. You'll drive through famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Mojave Desert. The total distance is 1,160 miles, and the estimated driving time is around 18 hours.

Cost Estimate

When planning a road trip, you need to factor in all the costs associated with driving. Here's an estimate of how much it would cost to drive from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California, based on the current gas prices and average fuel efficiency (25 miles per gallon).

Gas Cost

The average gas price in the United States is $3.04 per gallon as of August 2021. Here's how much you'd spend on gas for each route:

  • Route 1: I-70W and I-15S

    • Total distance: 1,090 miles
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas price: $3.04 per gallon
    • Estimated gas cost: $130.91

  • Route 2: I-80W and I-5S

    • Total distance: 1,220 miles
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas price: $3.04 per gallon
    • Estimated gas cost: $146.50

  • Route 3: I-40W and I-15S

    • Total distance: 1,160 miles
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas price: $3.04 per gallon
    • Estimated gas cost: $138.94

Toll Cost

While most of the highways in the United States don't charge tolls, there are a few exceptions, especially in California. Here are the toll costs for each route:

  • Route 1: I-70W and I-15S

    • No tolls

  • Route 2: I-80W and I-5S

    • No tolls

  • Route 3: I-40W and I-15N

    • Toll: $7.50

Food and Lodging Cost

Assuming you'll need to eat and sleep during the trip, here's an estimate of how much you'll spend on food and lodging:

  • Route 1: I-70W and I-15S

    • Food cost: $150 (3 meals a day for 2 people for 2 days)
    • Lodging cost: $200 (1 night in a hotel)

  • Route 2: I-80W and I-5S

    • Food cost: $170 (3 meals a day for 2 people for 2 days)
    • Lodging cost: $200 (1 night in a hotel)

  • Route 3: I-40W and I-15S

    • Food cost: $150 (3 meals a day for 2 people for 2 days)
    • Lodging cost: $200 (1 night in a hotel)

Best Route

Based on the cost and the distance, the best route from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California is Route 1 (I-70W and I-15S). It's the shortest route, and it has the lowest gas cost. Additionally, you'll get to see some of the most spectacular national parks in the country, which will make the trip more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Driving from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California is a long but rewarding trip. You'll get to see stunning landscapes, visit famous national parks and attractions, and experience different cultures. The total cost of the trip will depend on the route you take and your personal preferences, but by following our cost estimate, you'll have a good idea of how much you'll need to spend. If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure and don't mind spending some time on the road, this trip is definitely worth it.