The Cost of a Calgary to Grande Prairie Trip: Exploring Routes and Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from Calgary, Alberta to Grande Prairie, Alberta? One of the important factors to consider while planning any road journey is the cost, particularly the cost of fuel. Gas prices are subject to fluctuations throughout the year, impacting our overall travel expenses. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Calgary and Grande Prairie and determine the most cost-effective option based on current gas prices. Let's dive into the details!

Route 1: Highway 2 and Highway 43 (Direct Route)

The most direct route between Calgary and Grande Prairie is Highway 2 and Highway 43. This route covers a distance of approximately 720 kilometers (447 miles) and allows travelers to reach their destination in the shortest amount of time.

To calculate the cost of this trip, we need to consider the current gas prices and the average fuel efficiency of vehicles. As of June 2021, the average gas price in Alberta is around $1.30 per liter ($4.92 per gallon). If your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 10 liters per 100 kilometers (23.5 miles per gallon), here's how we can estimate the fuel cost for this route:

720 km / 100 km = 7.2 (number of 100 km intervals) 7.2 * 10 liters = 72 liters 72 liters * $1.30 = $93.60

So, the estimated fuel cost for Route 1 is approximately $93.60 based on the current gas prices.

Route 2: Highway 22 and Highway 43 (Scenic Route)

If you have time to spare or simply enjoy scenic drives, consider taking Highway 22 and Highway 43 for your trip from Calgary to Grande Prairie. This route adds some additional distance to your journey, but it offers breathtaking views of the Rockies and lesser-traveled roads.

The total distance of this route is approximately 790 kilometers (491 miles). Using the same calculations as before, let's estimate the fuel cost based on the current gas prices:

790 km / 100 km = 7.9 7.9 * 10 liters = 79 liters 79 liters * $1.30 = $102.70

So, the estimated fuel cost for Route 2 is approximately $102.70 based on the current gas prices.

Route 3: Highway 2 and Highway 49 (Alternative Direct Route)

Another option to consider when traveling from Calgary to Grande Prairie is taking Highway 2 and Highway 49. This alternative direct route can be useful if you want to avoid heavy traffic or roadwork on Highway 43.

The total distance for this route is approximately 760 kilometers (472 miles). Applying the same calculation method, we can determine the estimated fuel cost:

760 km / 100 km = 7.6 7.6 * 10 liters = 76 liters 76 liters * $1.30 = $98.80

Thus, the estimated fuel cost for Route 3 is approximately $98.80 based on the current gas prices.

Route 4: Highway 1 and Highway 43 (Southern Detour)

If you are interested in exploring more of southern Alberta before reaching Grande Prairie, a scenic detour via Highway 1 and Highway 43 could be right up your alley.

This route adds some extra distance to your journey, with a total distance of approximately 880 kilometers (547 miles). To estimate the fuel cost, let's apply the same calculation method as before:

880 km / 100 km = 8.8 8.8 * 10 liters = 88 liters 88 liters * $1.30 = $114.40

Hence, the estimated fuel cost for Route 4 is approximately $114.40 based on the current gas prices.

Recommended Route Based on Cost

After analyzing the estimates for each route, it's clear that Route 1, which involves taking Highway 2 and Highway 43, offers the lowest estimated fuel cost of approximately $93.60 based on current gas prices. It also provides the most direct path, allowing you to reach Grande Prairie in the shortest amount of time.

However, if you have the flexibility and desire for a more scenic route, Route 2, which includes Highway 22 and Highway 43, is an excellent choice. While it adds a slight increase to the estimated fuel cost (approximately $102.70), the breathtaking views of the Rockies and quieter roads make it a worthwhile option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Calgary, Alberta to Grande Prairie, Alberta heavily depends on the route chosen and the current gas prices. Based on our analysis, Route 1, taking Highway 2 and Highway 43, offers the most cost-effective option with an estimated fuel cost of approximately $93.60. However, if scenery and a more relaxed journey are your priority, Route 2, involving Highway 22 and Highway 43, is worth considering despite a slightly higher estimated fuel cost of approximately $102.70.

Remember, fuel prices are susceptible to change, so it's essential to check for the latest updates before embarking on your trip. These estimates provide a general idea of the cost of the journey and can help you plan your budget accordingly.

No matter which route you choose, the road trip from Calgary to Grande Prairie promises to be an exciting adventure with stunning landscapes and memorable experiences. Safe travels!