Driving Cost from Decorah, Iowa to Wildwood, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

Navigating the Costs: A Journey from Decorah, Iowa to Wildwood, Missouri

Planning a road trip from Decorah, Iowa, to Wildwood, Missouri involves not just excitement about the journey itself, but also a careful consideration of the costs involved. With gas prices fluctuating, understanding the total expense tied to fuel can help you budget better and make the most out of your trip. This article will explore various routes you can take, the associated costs based on current gas prices, and offer recommendations on the best course to take.

Overview of the Trip

The drive from Decorah to Wildwood spans approximately 350 miles (563 kilometers) in a straight line. Depending on the route chosen, the total distance may vary slightly, as may the cost of gas. As of the most recent data, the average price for regular gasoline hovers around $3.50 per gallon. The fuel efficiency of your vehicle will also play a crucial role in calculating the total expenses.

Estimating Fuel Costs

To estimate your fuel expenses, you'll need to know the miles per gallon (MPG) that your vehicle averages. Let's assume a few scenarios:

  1. Highway Vehicle (25 MPG):

    • Total Distance: ~350 miles
    • Total Gallons Needed: 350 miles / 25 MPG = 14 gallons
    • Total Cost: 14 gallons x $3.50 = $49.00

  2. Standard Vehicle (20 MPG):

    • Total Gallons Needed: 350 miles / 20 MPG = 17.5 gallons
    • Total Cost: 17.5 gallons x $3.50 = $61.25

  3. Economy Vehicle (30 MPG):

    • Total Gallons Needed: 350 miles / 30 MPG = ~11.67 gallons
    • Total Cost: 11.67 gallons x $3.50 = $40.84

Factors such as traffic, elevation changes, and driving habits can impact fuel efficiency, so it's wise to account for those variables too.

Route Options

Route 1: The Scenic Highway 52

Distance: 375 miles
Estimated Time: 6 hours, 30 minutes
Description: This route takes you along Highway 52 southward, providing beautiful views of the Mississippi River and quaint small towns. You’ll drive through places such as Guttenberg, Dubuque, and further south through Bellevue before merging onto US-61.

Cost Estimate:

  • Vehicle MPG: 25
  • Total Gallons: 375 miles / 25 MPG = 15 gallons
  • Total Cost: 15 gallons x $3.50 = $52.50

Highlights: The scenic beauty of the overlooks and opportunities for short detours to explore historical areas make this journey worthwhile.

Route 2: The Scenic Byway Route

Distance: 360 miles
Estimated Time: 6 hours, 15 minutes
Description: This route combines scenic state highways and local roads. Starting from Decorah, take IA-9 east towards the Mississippi, heading south through the Driftless Area and crossing into Wisconsin. Eventually, you switch onto I-44 towards Missouri.

Cost Estimate:

  • Vehicle MPG: 25
  • Total Gallons: 360 miles / 25 MPG = 14.4 gallons
  • Total Cost: 14.4 gallons x $3.50 = $50.40

Highlights: This route allows for several stops at beautiful state parks, and you can experience the rolling landscapes of both Iowa and Wisconsin.

Route 3: Fast and Direct via I-35

Distance: 340 miles
Estimated Time: 5 hours, 30 minutes
Description: This route is the quickest and uses major highways such as I-35 and I-44. Start from Decorah, merging onto I-35 south, and then I-44 towards Wildwood.

Cost Estimate:

  • Vehicle MPG: 25
  • Total Gallons: 340 miles / 25 MPG = 13.6 gallons
  • Total Cost: 13.6 gallons x $3.50 = $47.60

Highlights: More time-efficient, this route is great for those looking to spend more time at their destination rather than on the road.

Route 4: The Long Route through St. Louis

Distance: 400 miles
Estimated Time: 7 hours
Description: If you want an adventurous detour, take this longer route that goes through St. Louis, crossing over the Mississippi River. After navigating through the city, you’ll find yourself on I-64 and I-44.

Cost Estimate:

  • Vehicle MPG: 25
  • Total Gallons: 400 miles / 25 MPG = 16 gallons
  • Total Cost: 16 gallons x $3.50 = $56.00

Highlights: While longer, the route allows for the chance to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of St. Louis.

While you have several options, the fast and direct route via I-35 appears to be the most cost-effective and time-efficient choice. Traveling approximately 340 miles, it will cost around $47.60, making it an economical option for families and solo travelers alike.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Decorah to Wildwood offers not only a change of scenery but also an enjoyable experience on the open road. Choosing the best route can greatly influence your journey, with the direct route via I-35 standing out for its efficiency, costing only about $47.60 in fuel. With a travel time of about 5 hours and 30 minutes, you can maximize your time for exploration in Wildwood, ensuring that you’ll make the most out of both your journey and your destination. Enjoy your travels!