The Cost of a Road Trip: Decatur, Alabama to Eva, Alabama Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling by car from Decatur, Alabama to Eva, Alabama offers a short yet scenic journey through the heart of North Alabama. As the warmth of the Southern sun sets over the landscape, you can enjoy the sights along the way while considering the costs in terms of gas prices. In this article, we will explore different routes, the approximate distances, and the current gas costs to help you plan your trip effectively.
Route Options
1. The Direct Route via U.S. Route 231
Distance: Approximately 25 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 30 minutes
Gas Consumption: About 1 gallon of gas
The most straightforward route from Decatur to Eva involves taking U.S. Route 231 South. This direct path gives you a clear, efficient route with minimal hassle. You’ll start in Decatur, head south on 6th Avenue SE, and shortly merge onto U.S. 231. This route will take you through some small towns and provide a glimpse of local life.
Given that the average price of gas in Alabama is around $3.30 per gallon, you can expect your fuel costs for this journey to be approximately $3.30. However, you can also factor in slight variations based on your car's fuel efficiency; for instance, a vehicle that averages 25 MPG would consume a bit less gas.
2. The Scenic Route via AL-20 and AL-67
Distance: Approximately 34 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 45 minutes
Gas Consumption: Roughly 1.5 gallons of gas
If you have a little extra time and want to take a more scenic route, you might choose to travel via AL-20 and AL-67. This route winds through picturesque landscapes that could provide a pleasant drive. Departing from Decatur, you would follow the route to AL-20, eventually making your way to AL-67.
You'll spend more time and cover more ground, but the beautiful views can make it worthwhile. The estimated fuel cost for this trip would be about $4.95 for gas, again based on the average price of $3.30 per gallon.
3. The Back Roads Route via Lacey’s Spring
Distance: Approximately 31 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 40 minutes
Gas Consumption: About 1.3 gallons of gas
Another attractive option is taking the back roads through Lacey's Spring. This route offers a more rustic experience compared to the highways. You travel down various smaller roads and connect back to the main routes, which enhances the trip's charm.
This scenic drive would require about 1.3 gallons of gas, leading to a cost of approximately $4.29 at current prices. It might take longer, but the country feel can be refreshing.
Cost Breakdown Based on Routes
Let’s summarize the costs for each route:
| Route | Distance | Estimated Driving Time | Gas Consumption (gallons) | Estimated Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Route via U.S. 231 | 25 miles | 30 minutes | 1.0 | $3.30 |
| Scenic Route via AL-20 and AL-67 | 34 miles | 45 minutes | 1.5 | $4.95 |
| Back Roads Route via Lacey's Spring | 31 miles | 40 minutes | 1.3 | $4.29 |
Which Route Should You Choose?
When considering which route to take based on cost, the direct route via U.S. Route 231 comes out on top. Not only is it the quickest, but it also has the lowest fuel costs. However, if you have the time to spare and want to enjoy the scenery, either the AL-20 and AL-67 scenic route or the back roads to Lacey's Spring could prove to be more rewarding experiences.
While the costs of gas may fluctuate, planning ahead with these routes will save you both time and money. In choosing the best route, weigh your priorities: if cost and time are your main concerns, stick to the direct route. If experience and exploration are your goals, veering off the main path for a longer drive might be worth it.
Conclusion
The trip from Decatur to Eva, Alabama provides several options based on your personal preferences, time constraints, and budget. The most economical choice would be to travel via U.S. Route 231, covering a distance of approximately 25 miles and costing about $3.30 in gas. On the other hand, taking the scenic or back roads can elevate the experience, even if the gas costs rise slightly. Regardless of your chosen path, this short road trip through Northern Alabama is sure to delight. Expect a driving time of around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the route you take, while enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way.