Road Trip Budget: Driving from Dayton, Ohio to Colorado Springs, Colorado on a Budget
Planning an adventurous road trip from Dayton, Ohio, to Colorado Springs, Colorado? Get ready to hit the open road! In this blog post, we'll explore different routes you can take, the distance you'll travel, the time it will take, and the overall costs based on current gas prices. As of now, let's assume gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. Buckle up and let’s dive in!
Route 1: I-70 W - The Scenic Route
The first and most popular route is via I-70 W. This scenic journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, and you’ll love the sights along the way.
- Distance: Approximately 800 miles
- Time: About 12 hours
- Cost: Based on a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon, the total gas cost for this route will be around $112 (800 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 32 gallons; 32 gallons x $3.50 = $112).
While this route doesn’t have significant toll expenses, you might encounter a small fee for certain highways in some states. However, that shouldn’t break the bank!
Route 2: I-64 W & I-70 W - The Quick Route
If you're looking to hit the gas and get to Colorado Springs a bit faster, consider taking I-64 W to I-70 W. This route offers a balance of speed and scenery.
- Distance: Roughly 780 miles
- Time: Around 11 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: For a vehicle achieving 25 miles per gallon, the gas cost totals near $109 (780 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 31.2 gallons; 31.2 gallons x $3.50 = $109.20).
Much like the previous route, tolls are minimal. You might encounter a few as you navigate through larger cities, but they generally won’t amount to much more than a few dollars.
Route 3: I-75 S to I-70 W - The Alternative Scenic Route
If you have a little more time to spare and want to view different states, try taking I-75 S to I-70 W. This alternative scenic journey allows you to explore more than just quick highways.
- Distance: Approximately 830 miles
- Time: About 13 hours
- Cost: For a vehicle averaging 25 miles per gallon, your gas expense will come to about $116 (830 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 33.2 gallons; 33.2 gallons x $3.50 = $116.20).
Tolls again are very minimal. Along this route, take your time to enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel through various states.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! No matter which route you take, your road trip from Dayton to Colorado Springs promises to be an adventure worth remembering. From gas costs to scenic views, the overall distance ranges from about 780 to 830 miles, and your total costs hover between $109 and $116 for gas alone. Just remember to factor in some additional expenses for food and lodging if you plan on taking your time.
With the right preparation, you'll not only enjoy the journey but also keep your budget in check. Happy travels, and enjoy your time in Colorado Springs! Safe driving!