The Cost of a Road Trip: Dallas to Granbury, Texas Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a trip from Dallas, Texas to Granbury, Texas can be both exciting and economical. The driving distance is approximately 80 miles, but the cost of this journey can vary significantly based on your selected route and the current gas prices. In this article, we will explore different routes, their distances, estimated driving times, and costs based on current gas prices to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect on your trip.
Understanding Current Gas Prices
Before embarking on your trip, it's crucial to know the current gas prices in Texas. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Texas sits around $3.50 per gallon. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, this figure will play a critical role in calculating the overall travel cost. Let’s assume a mid-range fuel economy of about 25 miles per gallon for this analysis.
Route Options from Dallas to Granbury
While there are multiple routes to take, three primary routes stand out for their convenience, distance, and driving time.
Route 1: I-20 W to Granbury (The Fastest)
- Distance: Approximately 80 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cost of Gas: $11.20
To take I-20 W, begin on I-30 W from downtown Dallas. From I-30, merge onto I-20 W towards Abilene. Take the exit for TX-144, then head south into Granbury. This route offers the advantage of a modern highway with well-maintained roads. At a fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 4 gallons of gas for this trip.
Cost Calculation:
Gas Needed: 80 miles / 25 mpg = 3.2 gallons
Cost of Gas: 3.2 gallons * $3.50 = $11.20
Route 2: TX-174 S (Scenic Route)
- Distance: Approximately 85 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Cost of Gas: $12.00
For those looking for a more scenic drive, TX-174 S offers beautiful rural views. Starting from Dallas, take I-35W S towards Fort Worth, and then merge onto TX-174 S. This route takes you through quaint towns like Burleson and Joshua before arriving in Granbury. While the distance is slightly longer, its beauty is worth the extra time and gas cost.
Cost Calculation:
Gas Needed: 85 miles / 25 mpg = 3.4 gallons
Cost of Gas: 3.4 gallons * $3.50 = $11.90
Route 3: US-377 S (The Direct Route)
- Distance: Approximately 75 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Cost of Gas: $10.50
The final route is straightforward. From Dallas, head west on I-30 and then take US-377 S all the way to Granbury. This route slightly shortens the distance, making it an efficient option, yet still provides a smooth driving experience.
Cost Calculation:
Gas Needed: 75 miles / 25 mpg = 3 gallons
Cost of Gas: 3 gallons * $3.50 = $10.50
Summary of Routes
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Cost of Gas |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-20 W | 80 miles | 1 hour 30 mins | $11.20 |
| TX-174 S (Scenic) | 85 miles | 1 hour 45 mins | $11.90 |
| US-377 S | 75 miles | 1 hour 40 mins | $10.50 |
Recommendation: The Best Route for Your Trip
Among the routes detailed above, the best option depends on your priorities—speed, scenery, or cost. If you're looking to reach Granbury quickly, the I-20 W route is the most efficient, taking only 1.5 hours and costing approximately $11.20 in gas. If you wish to enjoy the scenic countryside without drastically extending your travel time, taking TX-174 S is a valid choice. However, if you're looking to save a few dollars and don't mind a slightly longer drive, the US-377 S route is the most economical option.
Ultimately, the US-377 S route stands out as the ideal compromise for those seeking a balance between cost and time.
Conclusion
The trip from Dallas to Granbury, whether you choose the fastest I-20 W route or the scenic TX-174 S option, offers an enjoyable driving experience. On average, expect the journey to take between 1 hour and 45 minutes, costing anywhere from $10.50 to $12.00 based on your route and the current gas prices. Regardless of your route choice, the beautiful Texas landscape awaits you, making this road trip a rewarding experience.