The Cost of Driving from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Edgewater, Colorado

Planning a road trip from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Edgewater, Colorado? You're in for a scenic drive through the heart of the Midwest and into the Rocky Mountains. But before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of your journey, especially with fluctuating gas prices and potential toll roads. Let's break down the different routes, their distances, travel times, and estimated costs to help you plan your trip.

Route 1: I-80 W and I-76 W

Distance: Approximately 538 miles
Time: Around 8-9 hours
Gas Price: Based on the current average of $2.80 per gallon, with an estimated fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you may spend approximately $112 on gas for this route.
Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.

Route 2: I-80 W and I-25 S

Distance: Approximately 576 miles
Time: Approximately 9-10 hours
Gas Price: With the same gas price and fuel efficiency as Route 1, you may expect to spend around $115 on gas for this route.
Tolls: Depending on the specific route and any optional toll roads, you may encounter tolls along I-25, so it's important to factor in these additional costs.

Route 3: Scenic Route - US-34 W and US-36 W

Distance: Approximately 617 miles
Time: Expect a longer travel time for this scenic route, likely around 10-11 hours.
Gas Price: Given the extra distance, you may need to budget around $123 for gas, based on the same gas price and fuel efficiency as the other routes.
Tolls: There are no tolls on this scenic route, allowing you to soak in the beautiful Midwest and mountain views without additional costs.

No matter which route you choose, it's essential to account for potential road conditions, traffic, and other unforeseen factors that may affect your travel time and expenses. Lastly, keep in mind that gas prices and tolls can vary, so it's a good idea to check for the most current information before you hit the road.

Safe travels and enjoy your trip from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Edgewater, Colorado!