Driving Cost from Delta, Colorado to Layton, Utah

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Cost of a Trip Between Delta, Colorado and Layton, Utah: Analyzing Routes Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Delta, Colorado, and Layton, Utah, offers scenic landscapes and diverse experiences. However, before embarking on this journey, understanding the costs involved is crucial. This article will break down the best routes to take, their distances, and the estimated costs based on current gas prices. With gas prices fluctuating, it’s important to assess the most economical way to travel.

Overview of the Journey

The trip from Delta to Layton spans approximately 450 miles, depending on the route chosen. Travelers can expect to spend roughly seven to eight hours on the road, including breaks. This trip connects the beautiful landscapes of Colorado and Utah, showcasing the unique scenery of the Rocky Mountains and Great Basin regions.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, gas prices average around $3.80 per gallon in Colorado and $3.70 per gallon in Utah. For this article, we estimate that a vehicle averages about 25 miles per gallon. The whole trip will thus require approximately 18 gallons of fuel, leading to a total fuel cost ranging from $66 to $72, depending on the gas price variations.

Route Options

Route 1: Interstate 70 to Interstate 15

  1. Distance: Approximately 450 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: 7 hours

This route begins in Delta, heading west on Highway 50 before joining Interstate 70. From there, travelers will enjoy breathtaking mountain views as they head towards Grand Junction. After reaching Interstate 15 near Cedar City, Utah, drivers will continue north to Layton.

Cost Analysis

  • Gas Cost: $68
  • Toll Costs: none
  • Highlights: Stunning views of the Colorado River, access to national parks.

Route 2: US-50 to US-191

  1. Distance: Approximately 475 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours

This alternative route takes travelers east on Highway 50 before heading south toward Moab, Utah. Then, you will connect to US-191, which leads directly to Interstate 70, followed by taking Interstate 15 north to Layton.

Cost Analysis

  • Gas Cost: $72
  • Toll Costs: none
  • Highlights: Access to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks; lush landscapes.

Route 3: US-50 to I-15 via state highways

  1. Distance: Approximately 490 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: 8.5 hours

Taking this route entails following US-50 until reaching US-6, which leads north to I-15. This journey offers travelers a quieter ride through picturesque valleys and small towns.

Cost Analysis

  • Gas Cost: $74
  • Toll Costs: none
  • Highlights: Quaint towns and scenic backroads.

Recommendations: The Best Route

While all three options offer unique experiences, the first route via Interstate 70 to Interstate 15 stands out as the best choice. Not only does it provide the most direct path to Layton, but it also showcases some of the most stunning scenery in the region. The cost savings are another attractive feature, making it the most economical choice for travelers. With a total estimated gas cost of around $68, this route allows traveler's wallets to stay a little fuller.

Planning Your Trip

Traveling from Delta to Layton involves more than just choosing the shortest or cheapest route. It's essential to plan for breaks, meals, and accommodations if you choose to break up your journey over two days. Some excellent stopping points include:

  • Grand Junction: A great place to refuel with options for food and a quick look at the Colorado National Monument.
  • Cedar City: Offering restaurants and a lovely downtown, this city is an ideal stop upon entering Utah.

Additionally, don’t forget to check local weather and road conditions before you hit the highway, particularly during winter months when mountain conditions can change rapidly.

Conclusion

The trip from Delta, Colorado, to Layton, Utah, is not only an opportunity to explore the beautiful western United States but also to experience different landscapes and charming towns along the way. By taking the route via Interstate 70 to Interstate 15, you can efficiently cover the 450-mile journey in about seven hours while keeping travel costs around $68. This route provides a balance of scenic beauty and economical travel, making it the best option for a memorable road trip.