Gas Prices and Cost of Trip Between Canton, MI and Whitmore Lake, MI

If you're planning a long-distance road trip, one of the most important things to consider is the cost. One of the most significant expenses associated with any road trip is gas. Therefore, when planning your trip from Canton, MI, to Whitmore Lake, MI, it is crucial to consider the cost of gas. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, highlighting the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

There are two primary routes to take when traveling between Canton and Whitmore Lake.

Route 1: Take I-275 N and M-14 W

One option to consider is to take I-275 N and M-14 W. This route takes approximately 25 minutes to travel the 19.8 miles. It is the most direct and fastest route, but it is also typically the most expensive route when it comes to gas prices.

Route 2: Take Hines Drive

The other option is to take Hines Drive, which offers a much more scenic and leisurely route, but it takes about twice as long. The journey takes around 44 minutes to travel the 23.6 miles. While the route might take longer, it offers a beautiful drive with a variety of parks along the way, including the Willow Metropark and Lower Huro-Canoe-Kayak-Campground.

Cost of Gas

Gas prices fluctuate frequently, and it is essential to consider the current price of gas when planning any road trip. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Canton, MI, was $3.16 per gallon, and Whitmore Lake, MI, had an average gas price of $3.15 per gallon.

The distance between the two cities is approximately 19.8 miles, and a car gets around 25 miles per gallon (mpg) on average. Therefore, to travel one way from Canton to Whitmore Lake, you will need about 0.8 gallons of gas. This means that the cost of gas for the trip will be around $2.53.

The total cost of the trip, including gas, will depend on the specific vehicle's fuel efficiency and other driving costs. Below are some estimates based on the two possible routes.

Route 1: I-275 N and M-14 W

The most direct route from Canton to Whitmore Lake totals around 19.8 miles. The trip will require approximately 0.8 gallons of gas, which translates to approximately $2.53. Additionally, you'll need to factor in tolls if you choose to take this route. The round trip journey will cost approximately $1.50 in tolls.

Route 2: Hines Drive

The trip through Hines Drive is approximately 23.6 miles long and will require approximately 0.94 gallons of gas, which translates to around $2.97 for one direction. While there is no toll cost on this route, you should be prepared for traffic slowing down your trip, especially during peak hours.

Best Route

While the direct route via I-275 N and M-14 W is the shortest, it is also more expensive both in gas and toll costs. For those who want a more leisurely and scenic drive, taking Hines Drive is the best option.

While it would take almost twice as long to travel, the route takes you through a series of beautiful parks, offering a lovely way to spend a day out. Hines Drive also has no tolls and costs slightly less than the direct route.

Overall, the best route to take will depend on what you want to get out of the trip. If you like the convenience, speed, and direct travel, then I-275 N and M-14 W is definitely the route of choice. But if you don't mind taking a more leisurely drive, enjoy scenic views, and want to save a few dollars, Hines Drive is the right choice for you.

Conclusion

The journey from Canton, MI to Whitmore Lake, MI, is a short one. If you're looking to save money, taking the Hines Drive route is the most economical option. Though it takes longer, you will enjoy beautiful views of the parks along the way. However, if you're looking to save time and value the convenience of the direct route, taking I-275 N and M-14 W is the best choice. Nevertheless, when planning your trip, it is important to consider gas prices and factor it into the overall cost.