Driving Cost from Denver, Colorado to Alpine, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Costs of a Road Trip: Denver, Colorado to Alpine, Texas Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado to Alpine, Texas offers a fantastic opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes, unique towns, and memorable experiences along the way. However, understanding the costs associated with such a trip is crucial in making your journey both enjoyable and budget-friendly. In this article, we will discuss various routes, their distances, associated gas costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best route for your adventure.

Current Gas Prices

Before embarking on any road trip, it’s vital to assess the current gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in the United States hovers around $3.50 per gallon. Gas prices fluctuate frequently, so remember to check them before your trip. For this analysis, we’ll assume the gas price remains relatively stable at $3.50 per gallon throughout your journey.

Estimating Fuel Economy

To accurately estimate the costs of fuel for your trip, you must also consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. On average, most vehicles achieve around 25 miles per gallon (MPG). For this trip calculation, we will use 25 MPG as the baseline for our fuel economy.

Route Options

There are multiple routes you can take to travel from Denver to Alpine, Texas. Let's explore three primary options:

Route 1: The Direct Route via I-25 S

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 600 miles
  • Travel Time: About 9 hours

Cost Analysis

To calculate the fuel requirement:

  1. Total gallons of gas needed:
    600 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 24 gallons

  2. Total fuel cost:
    24 gallons × $3.50 = $84

Road Conditions and Highlights

This route takes you south on I-25, passing through cities like Pueblo and Colorado Springs. The scenery along the way features stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and you may even want to stop at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, a small detour but well worth the visit.

Route 2: Scenic Route via I-70 W & US-87 S

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 675 miles
  • Travel Time: About 11 hours

Cost Analysis

To calculate the fuel requirement:

  1. Total gallons of gas needed:
    675 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 27 gallons

  2. Total fuel cost:
    27 gallons × $3.50 = $94.50

Road Conditions and Highlights

Starting from Denver, you will travel west on I-70, providing beautiful mountain views. This route takes you through Glenwood Springs and leads south down Highway 87. Although this route is longer, it offers breathtaking scenery along the way, including the picturesque mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Route 3: The Southern Route via US-287 S

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 640 miles
  • Travel Time: About 10 hours

Cost Analysis

To calculate the fuel requirement:

  1. Total gallons of gas needed:
    640 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 25.6 gallons

  2. Total fuel cost:
    25.6 gallons × $3.50 = $89.60

Road Conditions and Highlights

This route takes US-287 south, leading through towns such as La Junta and Dumas. Although it is slightly longer than the fastest route (I-25), it provides an opportunity to experience the agricultural landscape of eastern Colorado and west Texas. It also bypasses larger cities, which can save you time spent in traffic.

After evaluating all options, the best route to choose for your trip from Denver to Alpine, Texas, is the direct route via I-25 S. This route balances a reasonable travel distance, direct access to major highways, and stunning views along the way. As calculated, the cost of fuel for this route will be approximately $84, making it the most economical option.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While fuel is a major cost of any road trip, it's essential to consider other expenditures as well. Here are a few to keep in mind:

  1. Food and Drinks: Budget for meals on the road. Fast food options may range from $5 to $12 per meal, and snacks can add up as well.

  2. Accommodation: Depending on your travel style, you might need to book a hotel or find alternative lodging. Budget hotels may cost around $80 to $120 per night.

  3. Tolls and Other Fees: Some routes have tolls or entrance fees for national parks. Ensure you have cash or a credit card ready for these expenses.

  4. Entertainment: Consider budgeting for activities along the way such as entry fees to parks or attractions.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Alpine, Texas, can be a remarkable adventure filled with scenic sights and memorable stops. Taking the direct route via I-25 S not only saves you time but also keeps your travel expenses to around $84 for fuel. This approximately 600-mile journey will take you about 9 hours, allowing you to enjoy a smooth ride while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Colorado and Texas. Prepare for your trip, buckle up, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!