Driving Cost from Deadwood, South Dakota to Belleville, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

Navigating Costs: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Trip from Deadwood, South Dakota to Belleville, Illinois

Planning a road trip from Deadwood, South Dakota, to Belleville, Illinois, presents an exciting opportunity to explore a mix of scenic vistas, roadside attractions, and historical sites. However, one of the primary considerations for any traveler is the cost associated with the journey, most notably fuel expenses. With rising gas prices, understanding your options and calculating the cost based on your chosen route becomes crucial. This article outlines various routes, estimates the travel costs based on current gas prices, and recommends the best option.

Overview of Routes

The journey from Deadwood to Belleville spans approximately 700 miles, and travelers can choose from several different routes. The two main routes include:

  1. Route 1: Via I-90 E and I-70 E
  2. Route 2: Via I-90 E and I-64 E

Both routes offer unique experiences along the way, but they also vary in distance, travel time, and fuel costs.

Route 1: Via I-90 E and I-70 E

The first option, traveling via I-90 E and I-70 E, is a more direct route to Belleville.

Distance and Travel Time

  • Total Distance: Approximately 700 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 10 to 11 hours

Key Stops Along the Way

This route offers ample opportunities for stops at several intriguing places:

  • Mount Rushmore - The iconic American monument is just a short detour from Deadwood.
  • Badlands National Park - Less than two hours away, the park features stunning landscapes and unique rock formations.
  • Sioux Falls, SD - Make a pit stop to see the beautiful waterfalls and enjoy local dining.

Fuel Cost Estimation

Now, let’s examine fuel costs. As of October 2023, the average gas price in South Dakota hovers around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, here’s a breakdown:

  • Total Miles: 700 miles
  • Gallons Needed: 700 miles / 25 MPG = 28 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 28 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $98

Route 2: Via I-90 E and I-64 E

The second route also takes advantage of I-90 E but diverges through I-64 E, passing through some charming small towns.

Distance and Travel Time

  • Total Distance: Approximately 720 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 11 to 12 hours

Key Stops Along the Way

This route is more scenic, with unique stops like:

  • Lake of the Ozarks - A beautiful and popular vacation destination in Missouri.
  • St. Louis, MO - A short detour to take in sights like the Arch and various museums.

Fuel Cost Estimation

With this route being slightly longer, we’ll analyze the fuel costs as well:

  • Total Miles: 720 miles
  • Gallons Needed: 720 miles / 25 MPG = 28.8 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 28.8 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $100.80

Route Comparison

Route Distance (Miles) Estimated Time (Hours) Fuel Cost ($)
I-90 E and I-70 E 700 10 - 11 98
I-90 E and I-64 E 720 11 - 12 100.80

Based on the data above, the recommended option for budget-conscious travelers is Route 1 via I-90 E and I-70 E. It not only saves you around $3.80 in fuel costs, but it also offers a slightly shorter travel time. You can maximize your experience with entertaining stops along the way, particularly in areas rich with natural beauty and history. The opportunity to visit locations like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park adds value to your trip.

Additional Cost Considerations

While fuel typically eats up the bulk of a road trip budget, you should consider other expenses that may arise:

Food Expenses

Assuming you’ll need three meals on the road each day of travel, you may anticipate:

  • Meals: An average meal can cost between $10 to $20 per person. For an estimated total of $30 to $60 per day, consider multiplying this by 2 days, totaling around $60 to $120 for food on the trip.

Lodging Expenses

If you're planning on staying overnight during your trip (recommended for longer journeys), you'll also need to factor in accommodation costs:

  • Hotels/Motels: Prices for reasonable accommodations typically range from $70 to $150 per night. For a two-night stay, prepare to spend between $140 to $300.

Activity Costs

The cost of attractions can vary widely; plan for a budget of $10 to $50 per person for admission to various parks or monuments. For example:

  • Mount Rushmore: Entry is free, but donations are encouraged.
  • Badlands National Park: Entrance fee is about $30 per vehicle.

Summary of Estimated Total Costs

Here’s a rough breakdown of potential total costs for a cost-conscious solo traveler over two days:

Expense Category Estimated Cost
Fuel $98
Food $60 - $120
Lodging (2 nights) $140 - $300
Attraction Fees $30 - $50
Total (Low-End) $328
Total (High-End) $568

Conclusion

Traversing the road from Deadwood, South Dakota, to Belleville, Illinois, poses an opportunity for unforgettable sights and experiences while keeping costs in mind. Opting for the I-90 E and I-70 E route offers not only a shorter distance of 700 miles but also a fuel-efficient journey with an estimated cost of $98. Overall, the trip can be completed in about 10 to 11 hours, making for an enjoyable weekend adventure filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and memorable discoveries.