Budgeting Your Road Trip: Driving from Darlington, Wisconsin to Clinton, Minnesota Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exciting, especially when you’re venturing from the charming small town of Darlington, Wisconsin, to the lovely Clinton, Minnesota. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to calculate the cost of your journey. In this post, we’ll explore different routes you can take, along with the distance, time, and estimated cost based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Scenic Highway 81
One of the most delightful routes you can take is via Highway 81. This path offers beautiful views of the Wisconsin countryside, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- Distance: approximately 155 miles
- Time: around 2 hours and 40 minutes
- Estimated Cost: Given the average gas price of $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, your fuel cost will be roughly $21.70. So, factor in some extra cash for snacks and pit stops!
To calculate the gas cost, you would divide the distance by your vehicle's MPG (miles per gallon) to find out how many gallons you'll need. In this case, you'll need about 6.2 gallons for the round trip.
Route 2: The Quick Route via Interstate 90
If you’re looking for a faster journey without too much fuss, consider taking the Interstate 90 route. This option is straightforward and gets you there relatively quickly.
- Distance: approximately 125 miles
- Time: about 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Estimated Cost: Similarly, using the average gas price of $3.50 per gallon with the same 25 MPG, your fuel cost becomes approximately $17.50. Don’t forget to allocate a bit for any food along the way!
Here, you will require about 5 gallons of gas, making it a budget-friendly choice if time is of the essence.
Route 3: The Scenic Byway Through State Highway 14
For those who want a combination of convenience and picturesque views, State Highway 14 provides a beautiful route that many travelers adore.
- Distance: approximately 140 miles
- Time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Estimated Cost: Again, at $3.50 per gallon and with a vehicle efficiency of 25 MPG, expect your fuel cost to be around $19.60. This route gives you a taste of both rural and urban life, making it a pleasing blend for the senses!
On this journey, you’ll consume about 5.6 gallons of gas. A perfect balance for anyone wanting to soak in the landscapes without spending too much time on the road.
Conclusion
Whichever route you choose, driving from Darlington, Wisconsin, to Clinton, Minnesota, can be a delightful experience. From scenic views to swift travel, you have options. Just keep in mind the distance, estimated time, and gas costs when planning. Now, grab your sunglasses, queue up your favorite road trip playlist, and hit the open road! Safe travels!