The Cost of a Trip between Carsonville and Petoskey Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a trip from Carsonville to Petoskey in Michigan and wondering how much it would cost you? Well, the cost of your trip largely depends on several factors, including the distance, your vehicle type, current gas prices, and the route you decide to take. In this article, we’ll examine the different possible routes you can take between these two cities, highlight the cost and distance of each, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Different Possible Routes

There are several possible ways to get from Carsonville to Petoskey—some longer than others. The following are the most common routes you can take:

Route 1: Via M-53 N and I-75 N

This route is the shortest route and covers a total distance of approximately 138 miles. You’ll start off on M-53 North, which takes you to I-69 West. From there, you’ll take I-75 North and exit at Petoskey Road/US-31 North (Exit 329) to arrive at your destination. The estimated travel time on this route is 2 hours 22 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Route 2: Via M-25 N and I-75 N

If you prefer a scenic drive, this route is longer but more enjoyable. You’ll need to take M-25 North and proceed until you reach M-142 East. Follow the road until you reach M-53 North and then take I-75 North to arrive at Petoskey. This route covers approximately 163 miles, and it’ll take you around 2 hours and 54 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Route 3: Via US-131 N

This route is an alternative to the first two and covers a distance of approximately 173 miles. You’ll start off on M-53, take I-75 North until you reach West Branch, and then hit US-131 North. Follow the road until you reach Petoskey. The estimated travel time on this route is around 3 hours and 18 minutes, depending on traffic.

Cost Breakdown

Now that we’ve looked at the different possible routes you can take, let’s examine the cost of each route based on current gas prices. The following calculations are based on a gas price of $2.765 per gallon—one of the current average gas prices in Michigan as of August 2021. However, note that gas prices fluctuate frequently, so make sure you check the current prices before embarking on your trip.

Route 1: Via M-53 N and I-75 N

This route covers approximately 138 miles, and if your car gets 30 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 4.6 gallons of gas to reach Petoskey. At $2.765 per gallon, you’ll spend about $12.73 on gas for one round trip.

Route 2: Via M-25 N and I-75 N

This route covers approximately 163 miles. If your car gets 30 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 5.4 gallons of gas to reach Petoskey. At $2.765 per gallon, you’ll spend about $14.92 on gas for one round trip.

Route 3: Via US-131 N

This route covers approximately 173 miles, and if your car gets 30 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 5.8 gallons of gas to reach Petoskey. At $2.765 per gallon, you’ll spend about $16.02 on gas for one round trip.

Route Recommendation

From the above analysis, it’s clear that the route that’ll save you money on gas is Route 1. This route is not only the shortest but also the most fuel-efficient. You’ll save about $3.19 if you choose to take this route instead of Route 2 and around $3.29 if you pick it over Route 3. Thus, if you’re keen on minimizing your gas expenses, Route 1 is your best bet.

Conclusion

The cost of a trip between Carsonville and Petoskey is determined by several factors and knowing the cost can help you plan effectively. The shortest and most fuel-efficient route is via M-53 N and I-75 N, which is only 138 miles long and will cost you approximately $12.73 in gas for a round trip. However, if you prefer taking scenic routes, Route 2 and Route 3 are also viable options. All the routes can take between 2 hours 22 minutes and 3 hours 18 minutes, depending on traffic. By choosing the most cost-effective route based on current gas prices, you’ll be able to save money and still enjoy your trip to Petoskey.