The Cost of a Trip Between Burlington, WA and Lake Forest Park, WA: A Comprehensive Guide
If you're planning a trip between Burlington and Lake Forest Park in Washington, you might be wondering what the cost will be. There are a few factors to consider – from gas prices and distance to tolls and traffic. In this article, we'll break down the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one to help you decide which route to take.
Route Options
Route 1: I-5
The most direct and popular route between Burlington and Lake Forest Park is via I-5. The distance between the two cities is approximately 70 miles, and the drive time can take between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Cost Breakdown
Assuming you're driving a car that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and that gas prices are around $3.00 per gallon, the cost of a one-way trip will be about $17.50. This cost will vary depending on the car's MPG and gas prices.
Route 2: SR-9 and I-5
Another route you could take is via SR-9 and I-5. This route is slightly longer – approximately 76 miles – but it can be a more scenic drive, especially if you take the time to explore some of the small towns along the way, such as Arlington or Snohomish.
Cost Breakdown
Assuming you're driving a car that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and that gas prices are around $3.00 per gallon, the cost of a one-way trip will be about $19.20. This cost will vary depending on the car's MPG and gas prices.
Route 3: I-405
If you're looking to avoid the traffic on I-5, you can take I-405 instead. This route will take you through Bothell and then onto Lake Forest Park. The distance between Burlington and Lake Forest Park via this route is approximately 85 miles, and the drive time can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Cost Breakdown
Assuming you're driving a car that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and that gas prices are around $3.00 per gallon, the cost of a one-way trip will be about $21.60. This cost will vary depending on the car's MPG and gas prices.
Route 4: Chuckanut Drive
If you're in the mood for a scenic drive and want to avoid the highways altogether, you can take Chuckanut Drive. This winding road offers spectacular views of the Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands, but it can be a slower drive. The distance between Burlington and Lake Forest Park via this route is approximately 85 miles, and the drive time can take between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and how many stops you make.
Cost Breakdown
Assuming you're driving a car that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and that gas prices are around $3.00 per gallon, the cost of a one-way trip will be about $21.60. This cost will vary depending on the car's MPG and gas prices.
Toll Costs
It's also important to note that some of these routes may require tolls. For example, if you take I-405, you'll need to pay a toll of $1.50 at the tollbooth near Bellevue. If you take the SR-520 bridge over Lake Washington, it'll cost you $5.50. These tolls might seem small, but they can quickly add up if you're taking these routes frequently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the most cost-effective and direct route between Burlington and Lake Forest Park is via I-5. However, if you're looking for a more scenic drive, you could consider taking SR-9 or Chuckanut Drive. If you want to avoid the traffic on I-5, you can take I-405, but keep in mind that it can be a longer and more expensive route, especially if you need to pay tolls. Overall, the cost of the trip will depend on your route, gas prices, and any tolls you might need to pay. But no matter which route you choose, you're sure to enjoy Washington state's beautiful scenery along the way.