Driving Cost from DeForest, Wisconsin to Crystal Lake, Illinois

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Estimating Your Trip Costs: DeForest, Wisconsin to Crystal Lake, Illinois

Planning a road trip from DeForest, Wisconsin, to Crystal Lake, Illinois, can be an exciting venture. However, understanding the cost, primarily driven by gasoline expenses, is crucial for efficient budgeting. This article explores the different routes you could take, evaluates the costs based on current gas prices, and recommends the best option to make your journey both enjoyable and economical.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the routes, it's essential to understand the current gas prices, as this will significantly influence your travel costs. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Wisconsin hovers around $3.25 per gallon, while in Illinois, you can expect it to be slightly higher at about $3.50 per gallon. This discrepancy may impact not only the cost of your trip but also the choices you make regarding routes and pit stops.

Route Options

You have a few different routes to choose from when traveling between DeForest and Crystal Lake. Each option offers a unique experience and varies in terms of distance and cost.

Route 1: I-90 E via US-12 E (Approx. 130 miles)

The first and most direct option is to take Interstate 90 East. This route involves:

  • Route Summary: Begin on I-90 E from DeForest, then keep following I-90 E all the way to Route 31 south until Crystal Lake.
  • Distance: Approximately 130 miles.
  • Travel Time: Around 2 hours and 15 minutes without heavy traffic.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming your vehicle delivers about 25 miles per gallon.
  • Total Gallons Required: 130 miles / 25 mpg = 5.2 gallons.
  • Total Cost: 5.2 gallons × $3.25 (avg. gas price) = $16.90 for the trip.

Route 2: I-39 S and I-90 E (Approx. 140 miles)

Another option includes taking I-39 South then connecting to I-90 East.

  • Route Summary: Start on I-90 S toward I-39, then take I-39 South until you reach I-90 E; finally follow I-90 E to Crystal Lake.
  • Distance: Approximately 140 miles.
  • Travel Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes without heavy traffic.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Again, using the same vehicle, which provides approximately 25 mpg.
  • Total Gallons Required: 140 miles / 25 mpg = 5.6 gallons.
  • Total Cost: 5.6 gallons × $3.25 = $18.20 for the trip.

Route 3: US-51 S (Approx. 150 miles)

The third route utilizes US-51 S mainly, which is a more scenic route.

  • Route Summary: Depart DeForest on US-51 S, transition to I-90 E, and head straight to Crystal Lake.
  • Distance: Approximately 150 miles.
  • Travel Time: Closer to 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Continuing with the assumption of 25 mpg.
  • Total Gallons Required: 150 miles / 25 mpg = 6 gallons.
  • Total Cost: 6 gallons × $3.25 = $19.50 for the trip.

Route 4: Scenic Route via Local Highways (Approx. 160 miles)

For those who wish to experience the local charm of Wisconsin and Illinois, this scenic route opts for various county roads and local highways.

  • Route Summary: Travel through local highways, including US-12 and various other roads until you reach Crystal Lake.
  • Distance: Approximately 160 miles.
  • Travel Time: About 3 to 3.5 hours.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining the same vehicle assumption.
  • Total Gallons Required: 160 miles / 25 mpg = 6.4 gallons.
  • Total Cost: 6.4 gallons × $3.25 = $20.80 for the trip.

Best Route Recommendation

After evaluating the different routes based on distance, travel time, and cost, the best choice appears to be Route 1, taking I-90 E via US-12 E. This route offers the most direct and quickest option while keeping the fuel costs at a minimum. With a total trip cost of approximately $16.90, it’s the most economical route to take, especially considering the rising gas prices.

On the other hand, if you are looking to break away from the routine highway travel and experience more scenic sights, you might consider the scenic route. Although it requires a bit more travel time and cost, it can provide an enriching experience.

Conclusion

The trip from DeForest, Wisconsin, to Crystal Lake, Illinois, offers several route choices. Opting for the most direct route via I-90 E allows you to reach your destination in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes while keeping your fuel budget to just about $16.90. If time permits and you wish for a more leisurely drive, exploring the scenic routes could also add unique value to your travel, albeit with a bit more cost and time. Happy travels!