The Cost of Driving: Buffalo to Apple Valley

Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it's important to consider the cost of gas and tolls when deciding on the route to take. In this post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Buffalo, Minnesota to Apple Valley, Minnesota based on current gas prices.

The Shortest Route

The shortest route from Buffalo to Apple Valley is via MN-55 E and US-169 S, which is approximately 51.7 miles and takes about 55 minutes. According to current gas prices, which are around $3.10 per gallon, it will cost approximately $6.64 in fuel for a car that gets 30 miles per gallon. There are no tolls on this route, which means it's the most cost-effective option.

The Scenic Route

If you have a bit more time to spare, you can take a scenic route that will add a few miles but provide a more enjoyable journey. This route takes you through the outskirts of Minnetonka and Burnsville via MN-55 E and I-494 E before merging onto I-35W S. From there, you'll take exit 86 for County Road 11, following directions to Apple Valley. The total distance is approximately 56.1 miles, and it takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes. The cost of gas will be around $7.20. Since this route involves using the I-35W, there's a toll of $1.25 on the southbound lanes.

The Highways Route

The third option is to take a route that primarily uses freeways. This leads to a stretching 60.1 miles journey via MN-55 E and I-494 E. You'll then merge onto I-35W S, exiting at County Road 42, continuing onto Cedar Avenue and making your way to Apple Valley. This route takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs around $7.80 for gas. The main toll on this route is $1.25 for the southbound I-35W lanes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are different routes to choose from when driving from Buffalo, Minnesota, to Apple Valley, Minnesota, each with their respective distance, time, and cost. The shortest route is the most cost-effective way to go while the scenic route adds more minutes for your enjoyment. The highways route is slightly longer and more expensive, but it may be useful if you're downtown or near the airport. Knowing the different routes to take will help you make an informed decision based on your budget and travel time preferences. Safe travels!