The Cost of Driving from Charleston, West Virginia to Catawba, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Catawba, Virginia? This 240-mile journey is a beautiful drive through the Appalachian Mountains. But before you hit the road, what should you expect to pay in gas and tolls? Let's break down the costs of different routes:

Route 1 - I-77 South

One of the more direct routes from Charleston to Catawba is taking I-77 S. This route is about 225 miles and would take approximately 4 hours of driving time. At the current average gas price of $2.75/gallon, expect to spend around $34 in gas for a car that gets 25 miles per gallon. There are no tolls on this route, so your total cost in gas would be around $34.

Route 2 - I-64 East and I-81 South

Another option is to take I-64 E and then merge onto I-81 S. This route is about the same driving time, but it's a slightly longer distance at 240 miles. At the same gas prices as above, this route would cost you around $37 in gas for a car that gets 25 miles per gallon. There is also a toll on the I-64 bridge over the New River in Beckley, WV, which costs $4 for passenger cars. Your total cost in gas and tolls for Route 2 would be around $41.

Route 3 - Scenic Route Through Appalachian Mountains

If you're not in a hurry and want to take a scenic route through the Appalachian Mountains, Route 3 might be for you. This route would take you on country roads and smaller highways, adding more driving time and distance. You'll travel about 266 miles and spend around 5 hours on the road. Gas on this route might set you back a bit more since it has more hills. If you have a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, expect to pay around $43 for gas at current prices. There are no tolls on this scenic drive, so your total cost in gas would be around $43.

Route 4 - Avoiding I-64 E and I-77 S

If you want to avoid long stretches of interstates, Route 4 can take you there. You'll head south on US-119, before heading east on WV 598, then onto US-60, and finally south again on VA-42. This route is the longest and most time-consuming, taking around 6 hours of driving time and covering about 292 miles. You might also face more hills, which could increase your gas costs. With current gas prices, you can expect to pay around $46 for gas on this route. There are no tolls on this route. Your total cost in gas would be around $46.

Conclusion

No matter what route you take, expect to spend between $34 and $46 in gas and tolls on a trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Catawba, Virginia. Choosing the right route depends on your priorities - whether it's a fast and direct trip, a scenic adventure, or avoiding the interstates. Remember to factor in extra costs like food, lodging, and any activities you want to do along the way. Safe travels!