Driving Cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Opelika, Alabama

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Cost of a Trip between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Opelika, Alabama

If you're planning a trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Opelika, Alabama, one of the considerations that may come to mind is the cost of the journey itself. While the scenery and attractions along the way are undoubtedly important, it's essential to have a clear idea of the financial implications. In this article, we will explore the cost of making this trip based on current gas prices, discuss different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, recommend the best route, and conclude with an overview of the trip and its duration.

Possible Routes and Their Costs

When it comes to traveling from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Opelika, Alabama, there are a few different routes you can take. Each route varies in terms of distance, travel time, and potential costs. Let's explore the options:

Route 1: Via I-24 W and I-59 S

  • Distance: Approximately 265 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 4 hours and 30 minutes (without traffic)

If you choose this route, it will take you through the scenic countryside of Tennessee and Alabama. To reach Opelika, you'll need to head west on I-24 towards Nashville. Once you reach Nashville, you can merge onto I-440 W to bypass the city center. Continue on I-440 W until you reach I-65 S. Take the exit to merge onto I-65 S, and then merge onto I-59 S. Follow I-59 S all the way to Opelika.

Based on current gas prices, estimated at $2.50 per gallon, and an average car mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of this route would be approximately:

265 (miles) / 25 (miles per gallon) * 2.50 (gas price per gallon) = $26.50 (gas cost)

Route 2: Via I-75 S and US-431 S

  • Distance: Approximately 290 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 5 hours (without traffic)

If you opt for this route, you'll journey through beautiful portions of Tennessee and Georgia before reaching Alabama. Start by heading south on I-75 towards Atlanta. Follow I-75 until you reach Exit 218, where you'll merge onto I-475 S. Stay on I-475 S until you reach Exit 5, where you'll then merge onto I-75 S toward Macon. Continue on I-75 S until you reach the Macon bypass (I-475 S), and then merge onto I-475 S. Take Exit 1A to merge onto US-80 W/US-280 W towards Columbus/Phenix City. Finally, merge onto US-431 S, which will take you directly into Opelika.

Using the same gas prices and car mileage as before, the cost of this route would be approximately:

290 (miles) / 25 (miles per gallon) * 2.50 (gas price per gallon) = $29.00 (gas cost)

Route 3: Via I-59 S

  • Distance: Approximately 255 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 4 hours and 15 minutes (without traffic)

For a more direct route, you can choose to travel solely on I-59 S. This option takes you through scenic parts of Alabama and avoids detours or merges with other highways. Simply get on I-59 S in Chattanooga and continue until you reach Opelika.

Following the same calculation method as before, the cost of this route would be approximately:

255 (miles) / 25 (miles per gallon) * 2.50 (gas price per gallon) = $25.50 (gas cost)

Considering both the cost and distance of each route, as well as the estimated travel time, the recommended route from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Opelika, Alabama is Route 3: Via I-59 S. This route offers a significant cost-saving, as it requires the least amount of driving and consequently, less gas consumption. With a travel time of around 4 hours and 15 minutes, it strikes a balance between efficiency and enjoying the journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Opelika, Alabama depends largely on the route chosen and current gas prices. After evaluating three possible routes and their associated costs, Route 3 (Via I-59 S) stands out as the most economical option. Its distance of approximately 255 miles and an estimated travel time of around 4 hours and 15 minutes make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, it's important to keep in mind that gas prices may fluctuate, and the time spent on the road may vary due to factors such as traffic conditions. So, plan wisely, enjoy the journey, and have a fantastic trip!