Driving Cost from Danville, West Virginia to Shively, Kentucky

A picture depicting a gas pump

Navigating the Costs of a Road Trip from Danville, West Virginia to Shively, Kentucky: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a road trip can be an exciting but often daunting task. When setting out from Danville, West Virginia, to Shively, Kentucky, one of the primary concerns is the cost of travel, primarily fueled by current gas prices. This article examines the possible routes, their costs based on regional gas prices, and the overall trip experience.

Overview of the Journey

The trip from Danville, West Virginia, to Shively, Kentucky, spans approximately 200 miles. The driving duration averages around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As of the current date, gas prices average around $3.50 per gallon. The cost of fuel forms a significant part of the overall trip expenses, which we will break down depending on the routes taken.

Route Options

1. Route via I-64 E and I-65 S

Distance: Approximately 207 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes
Estimated Fuel Cost: $25.40

  1. Starting Point: Danville, WV
  2. Exit out of the city towards I-64 E: This route takes you through beautiful West Virginia terrain, passing through towns like Beckley and Charleston.
  3. Merge onto I-65 S: You continue south through Kentucky, eventually reaching Shively.

This route is fairly straightforward and offers some scenic views of the countryside.

2. Route via US-119 N and I-75 S

Distance: Approximately 196 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Estimated Fuel Cost: $23.80

  1. Starting at Danville, WV: Head northwest on US-119 N towards Pikeville.
  2. Join I-75 S in Kentucky: This road takes you south through the heart of Kentucky, with options to detour to various attractions.
  3. Follow signs to Shively.

While this route is slightly shorter, the driving time could increase due to various factors such as construction or slower traffic in smaller towns.

3. Route via US-60 W

Distance: Approximately 220 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost: $27.50

  1. Head out from Danville, WV on US-60 W: This route takes you through several small counties and rural stretches.
  2. Merge onto I-64 W: Drive towards Louisville, then take I-264 towards Shively.

This route offers less highway driving and more picturesque landscapes. However, the increased distance and slight increase in fuel costs may make it less preferable.

Summary of Route Options

Route Distance Estimated Time Estimated Fuel Cost
I-64 E and I-65 S 207 miles 4 hours 15 min $25.40
US-119 N and I-75 S 196 miles 4 hours 30 min $23.80
US-60 W 220 miles 5 hours $27.50

Cost Breakdown

For drivers concerned about the cost of fuel, let’s break down the estimated expenses based on average fuel efficiency. If you are driving a typical vehicle that has a fuel efficiency of about 25 miles per gallon:

  • I-64 E and I-65 S:

    • Distance: 207 miles
    • Gallons needed: 207 / 25 = 8.28 gallons
    • Cost: 8.28 * $3.50 = $28.98

  • US-119 N and I-75 S:

    • Distance: 196 miles
    • Gallons needed: 196 / 25 = 7.84 gallons
    • Cost: 7.84 * $3.50 = $27.44

  • US-60 W:

    • Distance: 220 miles
    • Gallons needed: 220 / 25 = 8.8 gallons
    • Cost: 8.8 * $3.50 = $30.80

These numbers reveal a significant impact of route choices on your overall travel expenses. The US-119 and I-75 route proves to be the most economical.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Fuel costs represent just one part of the expense. Travelers should consider other costs that could arise:

  1. Tolls: While there are no tolls on the most recommended routes, always check for any detours that may impose additional fees.

  2. Food and Beverages: Depending on your travel time, stopping for food may also add up. Plan for at least one meal if you’re taking the longer routes.

  3. Lodging: If you plan to extend your stay or travel over multiple days, budgeting for accommodations will factor into your total costs.

  4. Maintenance and Services: A quick vehicle check-up prior to travel can prevent costly roadside emergencies.

Based on the analysis, the US-119 N and I-75 S route emerges as the best option. It is the shortest distance with the lowest estimated fuel cost while also offering a relatively straightforward journey. Although it may take slightly longer due to possible traffic in smaller towns, the minor time difference is outweighed by the savings in fuel.

Conclusion

Traveling from Danville, West Virginia, to Shively, Kentucky, offers an enjoyable journey with cost-effective options available. The US-119 and I-75 route is not just the most efficient in terms of distance but also the least expensive, costing approximately $27.44 on average for fuel. Completing the trip under normal conditions should take around 4 hours and 30 minutes. Whether you opt for scenic views or more efficient routes, this trip promises to be memorable.