The Cost of a Trip Between Carbondale, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado

Are you planning a trip from Carbondale, Illinois to Longmont, Colorado? It's natural to start thinking about the cost of the trip, including gas prices, food, and accommodation. In this article, we'll break down the cost of the trip so you can plan accordingly.

Possible Routes

There are several possible routes to travel by car between Carbondale, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado. The choice of route depends on factors like distance, scenery, and traffic. Below are some possible routes with their respective distances and costs based on current gas prices:

1. I-70 W (1,000 miles)

The shortest route from Carbondale, Illinois, to Longmont, Colorado, is via I-70W, which covers a distance of 1,000 miles. This route takes you through St. Louis, Kansas City, and Denver. You'll drive through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado.

The estimated cost of driving this route is $212 in gas costs alone. This calculation is based on a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and a current national average gas price of $2.12 per gallon. Keep in mind that this calculation may vary depending on the make and model of your car.

2. I-70 W and I-25 N (1,035 miles)

If you want to avoid the traffic in Denver, you can take I-70W to I-25N, which adds 35 more miles but also added convenience. This route still covers a distance of 1,035 miles, which takes you through Kansas City.

The estimated cost of driving this route is $220 in gas costs alone. The reason for this increase in cost is because I-25N has more hills.

3. I-44 W and I-40 W (1,283 miles)

A longer and more scenic (though not always recommended) route is via I-44W and I-40W, stretching over 1,283 miles. This route passes through Oklahoma City and Albuquerque, and offers a glimpse of the Great Plains.

The estimated cost of driving this route is $272 in gas costs alone. Since it is a longer route, the gas cost increases, which may not be appealing to some.

4. I-57 S and I-25 N (1,221 miles)

Another possible route is via I-57S and I-25N, which is a distance of 1,221 miles. This path takes you through Memphis and Albuquerque, and you can enjoy the Natchez Trace Parkway.

The estimated cost of driving this route is $260 in gas costs alone. Since it is a longer distance, the gas cost is higher than the others.

The Best Route

If you're looking to minimize cost and driving distance, then the first route is the best option. It's the shortest, and it takes you through beautiful views of the Great Plains of Kansas. However, if traffic in Denver is a concern, then the second route is a better alternative. However, traffic in Denver is often a concern, so weigh your options carefully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Carbondale, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado, depends on the route taken and the current gas prices. The distance and fuel efficiency of your car will also play a role in determining the final cost of the trip. The shortest route via I-70 W is the cheapest and the most convenient, but there are other options if you want to avoid traffic or enjoy scenery. Ultimately, the choice of route depends on your personal preferences, but our recommendation is to go for the first route. The trip can take about 15 hours of non-stop driving time. The drive can vary regarding the pace of the traveler. Make sure to plan out everything to avoid any mishaps along the way.