Driving Cost from Dallas, Oregon to Kirkland, Washington

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Cost of a Road Trip from Dallas, Oregon to Kirkland, Washington: Calculating Your Travel Expenses in Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Dallas, Oregon, to Kirkland, Washington, offers a scenic drive through the Pacific Northwest, filled with natural beauty and charming towns along the way. With gas prices fluctuating, knowing the right routes and associated costs will help you budget for your trip effectively. This article will explore different routes, their distances, estimated gas costs, and which path is the best option for your journey.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Dallas, Oregon, and Kirkland, Washington, is approximately 170 miles, depending on the chosen route. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, but factors such as traffic, road conditions, and stops can affect your travel time. Understanding the cost of fuel is crucial when planning your trip, so let's take a closer look at current gas prices and how they impact your overall expenses.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Oregon hovers around $4.25 per gallon, while Washington's average is slightly higher at about $4.50 per gallon. For trip calculations, we will consider a fuel-efficient vehicle that gets around 30 miles per gallon (mpg). Additionally, we will look at the distance and fuel cost for each route option.

Route Options

Route 1: I-5 North

Distance: 175 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

The most direct route to take is via I-5 North, which is the quickest and most straightforward. Starting from Dallas, you’ll head northwest on OR-22 to join I-5 North. This route takes you through Salem, the capital city of Oregon, before crossing into Washington.

Cost Calculation

  1. Fuel Needed: 175 miles / 30 mpg = 5.83 gallons
  2. Cost of Fuel: 5.83 gallons * $4.25 = $24.76

This route is not only time-efficient but also cost-effective, making it an attractive choice for many travelers.

Route 2: US-97 and I-90

Distance: 195 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 3.5-4 hours

An alternative route involves taking US-97 North towards The Dalles, then connecting to I-90 West. While this route offers breathtaking views of rivers and mountains, it adds about 20 miles to your trip.

Cost Calculation

  1. Fuel Needed: 195 miles / 30 mpg = 6.5 gallons
  2. Cost of Fuel: 6.5 gallons * $4.25 = $27.63

While the scenic beauty is tempting, the added distance means higher fuel costs and slightly longer travel time.

Route 3: I-205 and I-5

Distance: 182 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 3.5 hours

Alternatively, you can take I-205 as a bypass to connect with I-5 North at the Washington border. This route includes a short drive on I-205 before merging onto I-5.

Cost Calculation

  1. Fuel Needed: 182 miles / 30 mpg = 6.07 gallons
  2. Cost of Fuel: 6.07 gallons * $4.25 = $25.83

This route offers moderate scenery and a slightly different experience by avoiding traffic in central Portland.

Factor in Stops and Additional Costs

When planning a road trip, it’s also important to factor in potential stops for food, restrooms, and sightseeing. Here are a few common considerations:

  • Meals: Depending on your choice of dining, budget approximately $8 to $15 per meal per person if stopping at fast food and casual dining restaurants.
  • Rest Areas: Most rest areas along the I-5 and I-205 routes offer free access, but planning breaks can reduce fatigue.
  • Attractions: If you decide to stop at attractions like Multnomah Falls in Oregon, keep in mind the entry fees and possible parking costs.

Based on distance, cost, and overall travel time, the recommended route from Dallas, Oregon to Kirkland, Washington is Route 1: I-5 North. This route balances speed and cost-effectiveness while keeping you comfortable along the way.

Total Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of your estimated costs for the trip using Route 1:

  • Fuel: $24.76
  • Meals (for two, assuming you stop for 2 meals): $30 - $60
  • Grand Total: Approximately $54.76 - $84.76, depending on your budget for meals.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dallas, Oregon to Kirkland, Washington along Route 1 via I-5 North is the most efficient and cost-effective way to make the journey. Overall, the trip should take about 3 hours, with the total estimated costs ranging from around $54 to $85, depending on your choices along the way. This route not only saves you time and money but also opens up the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. So buckle up, enjoy the drive, and have a wonderful trip!