Cost of a Road Trip: Denton to Burleson, Texas with Current Gas Prices
Traveling by car from Denton to Burleson, Texas, offers a chance to explore the heart of North Texas while enjoying the freedom of the open road. However, understanding the costs involved—predominantly fuel expenses—can significantly enhance your planning experience. In this article, we will explore different routes between Denton and Burleson, assess the distance and gas expenses for each route based on current gas prices, and recommend the best route for your trip.
Current Gas Prices
Before we delve into the routes, let’s establish the price of gas in Texas, as it plays a crucial role in calculating the overall cost of the trip. As of October 2023, the average price for regular gasoline in Texas hovers around $3.15 per gallon. This price can fluctuate, so it's wise to check local stations before your trip.
Overview of Routes
When driving from Denton to Burleson, travelers have several options. The two most common routes are via Interstate 35W (I-35W) and the backroads. Each route has its own characteristics in terms of distance, travel time, and scenery.
Route 1: Interstate 35W
Distance and Travel Time
The most direct route from Denton to Burleson is via I-35W. The distance covers approximately 40 miles, and the travel time typically ranges from 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Cost Estimation
To calculate fuel costs, we need to consider the vehicle's fuel efficiency. For this example, let's assume an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). To find out how many gallons of gas you will need for the trip, use the formula:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} ]
For a 40-mile trip:
[ \text = \frac{40 \text}{25 \text} = 1.6 \text ]
Next, we calculate the cost of fuel:
[ \text = \text \times \text ]
Using the average gas price of $3.15 per gallon:
[ \text = 1.6 \text \times 3.15 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 5.04 \text ]
Route 2: Farm to Market Roads
Distance and Travel Time
The second route takes you through various Farm to Market roads, providing a more scenic drive. This route measures about 42 miles and may take about 50 to 60 minutes.
Cost Estimation
Using the same fuel efficiency and price, we can proceed with the calculation:
[ \text = \frac{42 \text}{25 \text} = 1.68 \text ]
Calculating the fuel cost:
[ \text = 1.68 \text \times 3.15 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 5.28 \text ]
Route 3: Alternate Backroads Route
Distance and Travel Time
There’s also a more extended backroads route that takes you through several small towns including Justin and Haslet. This route covers about 45 miles and usually takes about 60 minutes due to lower speed limits and occasional stops in town.
Cost Estimation
For this route, we perform a similar calculation:
[ \text = \frac{45 \text}{25 \text} = 1.8 \text ]
Now, calculating the fuel cost:
[ \text = 1.8 \text \times 3.15 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 5.67 \text ]
Summary of Route Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Travel Time (minutes) | Fuel Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interstate 35W | 40 | 40 - 50 | $5.04 |
| Farm to Market Roads | 42 | 50 - 60 | $5.28 |
| Alternative Backroads | 45 | 60 | $5.67 |
Recommended Route
Based on the calculations above, the best route from Denton to Burleson is via Interstate 35W. This route offers the shortest distance and the least fuel cost, making it the most efficient option. Additionally, it features a smooth drive with limited stops, allowing you to arrive at your destination faster.
Conclusion
Traveling from Denton to Burleson, Texas, presents a pleasant journey filled with local sights and sounds. By taking the I-35W route, you minimize your expenses and time on the road, allowing you to enjoy your trip fully. Your journey will take approximately 40 to 50 minutes, costing around $5.04 for fuel, which makes it an economical choice. With the current gas prices and distances factored in, you can plan your trip with confidence, knowing you selected the best route for your adventure in North Texas.