Driving Cost from Clarkston, Washington to Maupin, Oregon

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Clarkston, Washington to Maupin, Oregon: Exploring the Gas Prices

Traveling from Clarkston, Washington to Maupin, Oregon can be an exciting road trip filled with scenic views and new experiences. However, one factor that can greatly impact the overall cost of the trip is the fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes for this journey, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are a few possible routes to consider when traveling from Clarkston to Maupin. The most common routes include:

Route 1: Via US-12 W

One route to consider is taking US-12 W, which is a scenic and popular route for road trips. This route spans approximately 270 miles and takes about 5 hours to complete. The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing. However, it is important to note that due to the length of this route, it may require more frequent stops for gas, which can add up in terms of cost.

Route 2: Via I-84 W

Another route to consider is taking I-84 W, a more direct and faster route that spans approximately 180 miles and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. While this route may not offer the same scenic views as US-12 W, it may be more cost-effective in terms of gas expenditures due to its shorter distance.

Gas Prices and Costs

Gas prices can fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including location, season, and global events. As of current gas prices, the average cost of regular unleaded gasoline in Washington is $3.50/gallon, while in Oregon, it is $3.20/gallon. With this in mind, let's calculate the estimated gas costs for each route based on the average gas mileage of a typical car (25 miles per gallon):

Route 1 (US-12 W)

  • Distance: 270 miles
  • Estimated gas needed: 10.8 gallons
  • Total estimated gas cost: $37.80

Route 2 (I-84 W)

  • Distance: 180 miles
  • Estimated gas needed: 7.2 gallons
  • Total estimated gas cost: $23.04

Based on these estimates, taking Route 2 (I-84 W) would result in a lower gas cost compared to Route 1 (US-12 W), due to the shorter distance and current gas prices in the respective states.

Recommendation

Based on the current gas prices and estimated costs for each route, it is recommended to take Route 2 (I-84 W) when traveling from Clarkston to Maupin. Not only does this route offer a more direct and efficient drive, but it also results in lower gas expenditures, making it the more cost-effective option for this trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Clarkston, Washington to Maupin, Oregon can vary depending on the route chosen and current gas prices. Based on the current gas prices and estimated costs, taking Route 2 (I-84 W) is the recommended route for a more cost-effective journey. With an estimated gas cost of $23.04 and a distance of 180 miles, this route offers a more efficient and budget-friendly option for travelers. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive or a more direct route, considering gas prices is an important factor in planning for your road trip. Safe travels!