The Cost of a Trip between Broomfield and Salida based on Current Gas Prices
As summer approaches, many people are planning road trips to explore the beautiful state of Colorado. One popular route is from Broomfield to Salida, which offers spectacular mountain views, historic towns, and outdoor activities. However, before hitting the road, it's essential to estimate the cost of the trip based on current gas prices. In this article, we'll break down the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one. We'll also recommend the best route based on affordability and convenience.
Possible Routes and Costs
Route 1: Taking I-25 South and US-50 West
The most straightforward route from Broomfield to Salida is taking I-25 South and US-50 West, which covers approximately 140 miles. This route passes through several Colorado towns, including Pueblo, Cañon City, and Florence, offering plenty of options for rest and food stops. Here's the estimated cost breakdown for this route, based on the current gas prices in Broomfield (as of May 2021):
- Gas mileage for 140 miles: 27 miles per gallon (MPG) on average
- Gas prices per gallon: $3.00 on average
- Total gas cost: $15.56
Route 2: Taking US-285 South
Another option is taking US-285 South from Broomfield, passing through the beautiful town of Buena Vista before reaching Salida. This route is slightly longer than Route 1, covering approximately 150 miles. However, it offers stunning mountain views and cooler temperatures compared to the previous route. Here's the estimated cost breakdown for this route:
- Gas mileage for 150 miles: 25 MPG on average
- Gas prices per gallon: $3.00 on average
- Total gas cost: $18.00
Route 3: Taking CO-93 South and CO-119 South
For a more scenic route that passes through Boulder and Nederland, take CO-93 South and CO-119 South to reach US-285 South, which leads to Salida. This route covers approximately 165 miles and is more challenging due to winding roads and mountain passes. However, it's worth the drive for the stunning views and charming towns. Here's the estimated cost breakdown for this route:
- Gas mileage for 165 miles: 23 MPG on average
- Gas prices per gallon: $3.00 on average
- Total gas cost: $22.17
Route 4: Taking I-70 West and US-50 West
The longest route but with the lowest gas prices is taking I-70 West and US-50 West, passing through the towns of Eagle, Glenwood Springs, and Grand Junction before reaching Salida. This route covers approximately 200 miles and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploring. Here's the estimated cost breakdown for this route:
- Gas mileage for 200 miles: 25 MPG on average
- Gas prices per gallon: $2.89 on average
- Total gas cost: $23.12
Best Route Recommendation
Based on the above information, Route 1 (I-25 South and US-50 West) is the most affordable and straightforward route to reach Salida from Broomfield, with a total gas cost of $15.56. It's also the shortest and the most popular route, offering plenty of amenities and towns to explore on the way. However, if you're looking for a more scenic drive and don't mind paying a bit more for gas, Route 3 (CO-93 South and CO-119 South) is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, estimating the cost of a road trip from Broomfield to Salida is crucial to prepare your budget and avoid any surprises. Based on current gas prices, Route 1 (I-25 South and US-50 West) is the most affordable and straightforward option, with a total gas cost of $15.56 for the 140-mile drive. However, if you have more time and are willing to pay a bit more for gas, Route 3 (CO-93 South and CO-119 South) offers breathtaking mountain views and charming small towns. Nonetheless, whichever route you choose, make sure to pack snacks, water, and emergency supplies and enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful state of Colorado.