The Cost of a Trip between Cottage Grove, Minnesota and Butler, Missouri: A Gas Price Comparison

When planning a trip between Cottage Grove, Minnesota and Butler, Missouri, it is important to consider the cost of gas, as it can greatly impact your overall travel expenses. With fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to evaluate the different possible routes and calculate the cost and distance of each one. By comparing the potential routes, travelers can determine the most cost-effective option for their journey.

Possible Routes

Route 1: Interstate 35

One of the most direct routes between Cottage Grove and Butler is via Interstate 35, which spans approximately 530 miles. This route takes travelers through the states of Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri, offering a relatively straightforward path. The average gas mileage for most vehicles is around 22 miles per gallon on the highway.

Based on the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route is estimated to be around $72.27, assuming the vehicle's gas mileage remains consistent throughout the trip.

Route 2: Interstate 29

Another option for the trip is to take Interstate 29, which covers a distance of roughly 580 miles and passes through the states of Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri. While this route may offer a slightly longer distance, it could potentially provide different gas price options along the way, ultimately affecting the overall cost of the journey.

Using the same average gas mileage and current gas price, the estimated total cost of gas for this route is approximately $79.09.

Route 3: Scenic Route

For travelers seeking a more scenic drive, there is the option to take a route that includes state highways and smaller roads, offering a different perspective of the landscape along the way. This route spans approximately 600 miles and may provide opportunities for lower gas prices at smaller gas stations.

With the same average gas mileage and current gas price, the estimated total cost of gas for this route is approximately $81.82.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost and distance comparison of the potential routes, Interstate 35 appears to be the most cost-effective option for the trip between Cottage Grove and Butler. While the scenic route may offer a different driving experience, the additional mileage and potential for higher gas prices could result in increased travel expenses. Similarly, Interstate 29, though similar in distance to Interstate 35, may not provide significant enough gas price variations to justify the longer distance.

Conclusion

After evaluating the different possible routes and considering the current gas prices, the most cost-effective route for the trip between Cottage Grove, Minnesota and Butler, Missouri is Interstate 35. With an estimated total cost of gas at approximately $72.27, this route offers a direct and economical option for travelers. Ultimately, the journey between the two destinations can be efficiently and affordably completed, allowing travelers to enjoy their trip without the stress of excessive gas expenses.