Cost of a Trip from Canyon Lakes at Stonegate, Texas to Houston, Texas
If you are planning a trip from Canyon Lakes at Stonegate, Texas to Houston, Texas, it is important to consider the cost of the journey. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, the cost of the trip can vary significantly depending on which route you take. In this article, we will explore the different routes available and their associated costs, and recommend the best option for your journey.
Route Options
Route 1: Sam Houston Tollway
One of the most direct routes from Canyon Lakes at Stonegate to Houston is via the Sam Houston Tollway. This route is approximately 31 miles long and takes approximately 35 minutes to complete. The cost of the tolls on the Sam Houston Tollway varies depending on the time of day and whether or not you have an EZ Tag. During peak hours, the cost can be as high as $1.75 per toll plaza.
Route 2: TX-288
Another option is to take TX-288, which is approximately 37 miles long and takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. There are no tolls on this route, so the cost is limited to gas and any other expenses you may incur such as parking. However, this route can be more congested than the Sam Houston Tollway during rush hour traffic.
Route 3: I-45
A third option is to take I-45, which is approximately 32 miles long and takes approximately 35 minutes to complete. Like TX-288, there are no tolls on this route, but it can also be quite congested during peak hours.
Cost Comparison
When comparing the cost of each route, it is important to consider different factors such as gas prices and tolls. Using current gas prices in the Houston area at the time of writing, let's analyze the total cost of each route, assuming a roundtrip:
Route 1: Sam Houston Tollway
Assuming you have an EZ Tag and are traveling during off-peak hours, the total cost of the Sam Houston Tollway would be $6.40 (four toll plazas at $1.60 each). Adding in gas for the 62-mile roundtrip at current prices of $2.50 per gallon and an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost would be approximately $14.80.
Route 2: TX-288
Driving the 74 miles roundtrip on TX-288 at a gas price of $2.50 per gallon and an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon would cost approximately $14.80 in gas. Other expenses such as parking should also be considered, but there are no tolls on this route.
Route 3: I-45
Driving the 64 miles roundtrip on I-45 at a gas price of $2.50 per gallon and an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon would cost approximately $14.80 in gas. Again, other expenses such as parking should also be considered, but there are no tolls on this route.
Recommended Route
Based on the cost comparison above, the best route for a trip from Canyon Lakes at Stonegate to Houston would be TX-288. While it may be slightly longer in distance and time compared to the other routes, the lack of any tolls helps keep the overall cost down. However, it is important to consider the potential for traffic on this route during peak hours and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Canyon Lakes at Stonegate to Houston, Texas can vary significantly depending on the route you choose to take. While the Sam Houston Tollway is the most direct route, tolls can quickly add up during peak hours. TX-288 is the best option for keeping costs down, but traffic can be an issue during rush hour. We have recommended this route based on the cost of gas and lack of tolls, but it is important to consider other factors such as traffic when making your final decision. Regardless of which route you choose, we hope this article has provided useful information to help you plan your next trip. Safe travels!