Driving Cost from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Cimarron, New Mexico

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The Cost of a Trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Cimarron, New Mexico

The distance from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Cimarron, New Mexico, is approximately 1,019 miles. The cost of a trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Cimarron, New Mexico, will depend on several factors, including fuel prices, accommodation, food, and possible detours along the way.

Possible Routes

There are different possible routes for a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Cimarron, New Mexico. Each route has its benefits and drawbacks that will affect the cost, duration, and experience of the trip. Here are the most common routes and their distance and estimated fuel cost, based on current gas prices of $2.78 per gallon:

  1. Via I-35 South and I-40 West: This route is approximately 1,220 miles and will take about 18 hours and 50 minutes of driving time. The estimated fuel cost is around $175 one way. This route can be faster and more comfortable, as it involves major highways and fewer detours.

  2. Via US-56 West and US-50 West: This route is approximately 1,102 miles and will take about 17 hours and 20 minutes of driving time. The estimated fuel cost is around $158 one way. This route has more scenic views, but it involves smaller roads and fewer amenities.

  3. Via US-34 West and I-70 West: This route is approximately 1,249 miles and will take about 19 hours and 35 minutes of driving time. The estimated fuel cost is around $179 one way. This route can be more enjoyable for outdoor lovers, as it passes through several parks and natural areas, but it has rougher terrains and occasional challenges.

Cost Breakdown

The cost of a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Cimarron, New Mexico, will vary based on different factors, such as:

  • Fuel cost: This is the most significant expense of any road trip. The fuel cost will depend on the car's fuel efficiency, the mileage covered, and the fuel prices along the way. Based on the estimated fuel costs above, the round trip fuel cost could range from $316 to $358, which can increase or decrease based on driving styles and stops.

  • Accommodation cost: This expense will vary based on the type of lodging chosen, such as hotels, motels, camping, or staying with friends and family. The lodging costs will depend on several factors, such as location, season, amenities, and availability. A rough estimate for a one-night stay at an average motel or hotel can range from $50 to $150, depending on the location.

  • Food cost: Eating on the go can add up quickly, especially if one eats at restaurants or fast food joints. The food costs will depend on the type and frequency of meals, individual appetite, and the location of the eateries. A rough estimate for a one-day meal budget can range from $30 to $60, depending on the eateries' selection.

  • Additional costs: There can be additional costs during the trip, such as toll/parking fees, car rental fees, attraction tickets, souvenirs, medical expenses, among others. Depending on individual choices, these costs can add up to several hundred dollars.

Best Route Recommendation

Based on the distance, fuel cost, and driving experience, the best route for a trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Cimarron, New Mexico, is via I-35 South and I-40 West. This route is longer than the other two, but it is faster and more comfortable, as it involves major highways and fewer detours. Despite the higher estimated fuel cost, the route provides more amenities, rest areas, accommodations, and food options. It also passes through several iconic locations, such as St Louis, Memphis, and Oklahoma City, which offer diverse cultural and historical experiences.

Conclusion

A trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Cimarron, New Mexico, is approximately 1,019 miles and can take about 17-20 hours of driving time, depending on the route and stops. The cost of a trip will vary based on several factors, such as fuel prices, accommodation, food, and additional costs. Based on the current gas prices and the factors above, a round trip cost can range from $600 to $1000 or more, depending on individual choices and the selected route. Regardless of the route or costs, the trip can offer unique cultural and natural experiences, bonding opportunities, and lifetime memories.