The Cost of Driving From Chehalis, Washington to Denver, Colorado

Are you planning a road trip from Chehalis, Washington to Denver, Colorado? Whether it's for a family vacation or a business trip, driving can be a fun and cost-effective way to travel. In this blog post, we'll explore a few different routes you can take and break down the distance, time, and cost of each route based on current gas prices. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready to hit the road!

Route 1: The Direct Route

If you're looking to take the shortest and most direct path from Chehalis to Denver, you'll want to hop on I-5 South and stay on it until you reach Denver. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,189 miles and can take around 18 hours of driving time.

Based on current gas prices of around $3.19 per gallon, you can expect to spend around $245.90 on gas for this trip, assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

It's important to note that tolls are not a significant factor on this route, as most of the roads are toll-free. This makes it an ideal option if you're budget-conscious and want to save on toll costs.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you prefer a more scenic and leisurely drive, you might consider taking a slightly longer route through the captivating landscapes of Idaho. Starting from Chehalis, you'll head east on US-12 towards Spokane, then south on US-395 before merging onto I-84 East towards Denver.

This picturesque route spans a total distance of approximately 1,331 miles and typically takes around 20 hours of driving time. With the same gas prices in mind, you'd be looking at spending around $282.90 on fuel for this scenic journey.

As for tolls, you'll encounter some along the way. One notable toll road is the SR-16 in Idaho, where the cost for a passenger car is currently $3.50. Considering the number of toll roads, you can expect to spend an additional $15-20 on tolls depending on your vehicle.

Route 3: The Hybrid Option

For those who want to mix efficiency with a touch of scenery, there's a hybrid option that takes you through Oregon and Utah. This route involves taking I-5 South until Portland, then switching to I-84 East, which later merges with I-80 as you cross Utah before reaching Denver.

Clocking in at approximately 1,304 miles and around 19 hours of driving time, this route strikes a balance between distance and time efficiency. Based on current gas prices, you can anticipate spending approximately $274.77 on gas.

When it comes to tolls, you'll encounter a few on this route as well. Notable toll roads include the SR-16 in Idaho and the I-84 express lanes in Portland. Plan to budget an additional $15-20 for toll costs during this trip.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, driving from Chehalis, Washington to Denver, Colorado can be an exciting adventure filled with beautiful landscapes and memorable pitstops. It's essential to consider the distance, time, and cost when planning your trip, as these factors can vary depending on your preferences and the current fuel prices along the way. So grab your road map or set up your GPS, calculate your budget, and get ready to embark on a fantastic road trip you won't soon forget!

Happy travels!