The True Cost of a Road Trip between Buttonwillow and Bakersfield

California is a state of vast distances and seemingly endless roads, where driving is a way of life. For those seeking adventure and exploration, a road trip from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield is an excellent option. While the 45-mile journey through two quintessential California towns may seem like a breeze, taking into consideration the cost of the trip is crucial. To help you plan your journey, we’ve broken down the cost of various routes and highlighted the pros and cons of each one.

Route 1: The Westside Parkway

The quickest and shortest route is to take the Westside Parkway from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield. This route takes approximately 45 minutes and has a road distance of 35 miles. The Westside Parkway is a toll road, which means you’ll have to pay at the tollbooths. Currently, the toll fee is $1.50, so if you’re just traveling one way, the total cost will be $3.

Route 2: The I-5 and CA-99

For those who prefer to avoid toll roads and enjoy a more scenic route, taking the I-5 and CA-99 from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield is a great option. This route covers a distance of approximately 42 miles and takes around 50 minutes to complete. While this option might take a little more time, it is free to travel and offers fantastic views of California's landscape.

Route 3: The CA-119

Another option for those who prefer a longer but scenic route is to take the CA-119 from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield. This route covers a distance of approximately 47 miles and takes around 1 hour to complete. The CA-119 is a great option for drivers looking for a more relaxing and scenic journey. This route will take you through some beautiful scenery as it hauls through the San Emigdio Mountain region.

Which Route is the Best?

After considering the different routes, the best way to travel from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield depends entirely on the driver’s preference. If you’re looking for the quickest route, take the Westside Parkway. If you prefer avoiding toll roads and taking scenic routes, the I-5 and CA-99 or the CA-119 are excellent options.

The Cost of Gas

Taking the cost of gas into account is crucial when planning a road trip. As of 2021, the average cost of gas in California is $3.92 per gallon. If your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon (which is standard), you will need 1.4 gallons of gas to travel from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield. Based on these statistics, your total gas cost will be $5.48.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the route you take depends entirely on your preference. If you value speed and convenience, take the Westside Parkway. If you’re all about the scenic route, opt for the I-5 and CA-99 or the CA-119. While the cost of gas may vary, it is always best to budget for additional costs, such as tolls and food. Whether you’re driving solo or with friends, the drive from Buttonwillow to Bakersfield is a beautiful experience, so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.